How to Write a Will

Writing a will is an important duty that can help your family down the line. Although it's rarely a fun task, it's important to make your final wishes known. Although the common misconception is that writing a will is difficult, it's actually quite simple. It only takes a few steps to have a legally binding will.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• List of assets
• Paper and computer to type up will
• Attorney

1. Compile a list of your assets. To efficiently write a will, you should have an inventory of all your possessions. Be sure to list everything from cash assets to any property that you own.
2. Make a list of your family members and any other beneficiaries. These will be the people who are named in your will. If you want to leave any part of your assets to someone, name them in this list.
3. Write a clear letter indicating which assets you want to leave to which beneficiaries. Make sure that your intentions are very transparent and lack any ambiguity. The clearer you can make your intentions, the better. Place your signature at the end of the letter. The letter will then be considered your will.
4. Find a witness to sign your will. The witness should be someone who isn't listed as a beneficiary.
5. Place the will in a place that can be accessed. Tell your beneficiaries where this place is so that they'll be able to retrieve your will.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be very thorough. The fewer questions you leave open, the easier it will be for your family.
• Never let someone write a will for you without fully inspecting the final result. It's essential that you read all paperwork that is included into your will.