Do it Yourself Wills
If you die intestate, or without a will, the state may not distribute your assets to the people you had assumed would inherit your estate, and it will attract additional tax liabilities. You can avoid these issues by making a valid will, which complies with your state's estate and probate laws. To make a will, most states require that you are at least 18 years old and of sound mind. Other common requirements are that the will should be typewritten or computer generated and that your signature be witnessed by two people who are not beneficiaries of the will.
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Instructions
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Check your state's specific legal requirements for a valid will. This information can be obtained from your state's bar association, and it also be found on websites such as Findlaw.
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Open a blank Word document. Give the document a title such as "Last Will and Testament of John Smith" and add your address and date of birth.
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Designate an executor for your will. This is the person who will administer your will and carry out its instructions in the event of your death. It is permissible for this person to be a beneficiary of your will. Specify their name and contact details. You may appoint more than one person to be an executor. Ensure that you ask a person's permission prior to designating him or her as an executor.
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Specify any funeral arrangements you want. This may include your wishes for burial or cremation and any particular funeral specifics such as church, officiant and place you want to be buried or your ashes interred or scattered.
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Give clear details to whom you wish to inherit specific assets. Give each bequest a separate paragraph. Keep the instructions clear and simple. For example, "My house at 1334 Acacia Drive should be divided equally between my son Peter Smith and daughter Sally Jones (nee Smith)."
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Sign and date the will in the presence of two witnesses, who are not named as beneficiaries. The witnesses should also sign the will and add their contact details. Keep your will in a safe place, where it can be easily located in the event of your death.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have children under the age of 18, you will need to designate a guardian for them. This can be complex, and you may want to consult an attorney since there are many legalities pertaining to their care and how they will be supported until they become adults.
If you have significant assets and multiple beneficiaries, you may also want to consult an attorney.
References
Resources
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