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Preparing to Create a Will? Here’s a Checklist

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There will come a point in your life when you’re preparing to create a will. It can be scary, intimidating, and fulfilling all at the same time, but once you’re on the right track everything will come together.

During your preparation, there are several steps you can take to organize your situation and ensure that you don’t overlook something of importance.

Here’s a brief five-point checklist to help you manage the process:

  • Decide on the property to include in your will: Make a list of all your assets, paying close attention to those that you can leave behind to your beneficiary through your will. Some assets, such as a life insurance policy, allow you to name a separate beneficiary.
  • Decide who will get what: Some people have no problem with this, as they leave all their assets to their spouse or an adult child. Others face a more complex situation, as they want to have several beneficiaries. And then there are those who are unsure of what to do with their assets upon their passing.
  • Choose an executor: After your passing, the person you name as executor steps in to carry out the terms and conditions outlined in your will. Choose this person carefully, as they have many responsibilities, some of which can be complex and stressful.
  • Choose a guardian: If you have children under the age of 18, you’ll want to name a guardian in your will. You hope the person you name never has to takeover parenting your children, but it’s best to prepare for everything.
  • Sign and store your will: Once you create your will, it’s time to sign it in front of two witnesses and then store it in a safe place. Be sure to tell others, especially your executor, where to find the will.

Even though you can work through this checklist on your own, you don’t have to tackle the entire process without assistance.

Contact our law firm to discuss your situation with an experienced estate planning attorney. Doing so will give you peace of mind, while also ensuring that you create a will that’s designed to meet the wants and needs of you and your loved ones.

Roger Levine, Estate Planning Attorney
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