Creating a will is one of the most important things you can do to help ensure your wishes are carried out upon your death. It’s also one of the best ways to avoid disputes and legal complications between your loved ones after you’re gone.
There are plenty of resources available to help you prepare for the end of your life and create a will, including online tools, books and estate planning software. Many of these products are designed to be simple and easy to use, so even if you’re not an attorney or a law degree holder, you can still write a will that works for you.
The key to preparing a will is to determine what assets you own and whom you want those items to go to. This includes real estate, savings, bank accounts and investments. You can also name beneficiaries on other types of property, such as life insurance policies or retirement accounts.
Once you have decided on the specifics of your will, you should gather all of your important documents for a meeting with an attorney to discuss what you’ve already written and to ask questions about any new changes in your life that might affect how you plan your estate. This will help ensure that you are leaving your wishes intact and don’t forget anything important.
Your attorney can also provide you with helpful tips and advice on other aspects of your estate plan, such as living wills and trusts. They will be able to advise you on the best way to distribute your assets.
Some attorneys charge hourly fees to draft your will, so be sure to find out what your cost will be before signing a retainer agreement. This fee will cover your attorney’s time drafting and reviewing the document, sending drafts for review, revising the document and communicating with you about it.
You can also find a will-writing service that will guide you through the process, usually by email or over the phone. These companies can be expensive, but many offer a flat fee or a subscription model for their services. They may also have perks like mailing your documents and access to an outside legal representative. Recommended this site car accident attorneys wilkes barre pennsylvania
There are a number of resources that will teach you how to make a will, but some people prefer to work with an attorney to get guidance on their specific wishes. This can be especially helpful if you’re unsure how to draft a will or if your situation is complex.
It’s important to note that a handwritten will is not valid in all states, so it’s advisable to type out your final draft on a computer. You can find many free templates online or use a professional-looking will writing service.
Your will must be properly signed and dated by you in the presence of two witnesses who are not related to your spouse or children. You must also name an executor who will carry out your wishes. This person can be a family member or friend, but he or she should have sufficient knowledge and time to administer your estate in a reasonable manner.
