Writing a will with the help of a professional service such as Stockton will writing, is something that all of us should do, and ensures that when we die, our belongings and assets can be left to the people and causes, we want them to go to. Without one, things could be made extremely difficult and stressful for your family and loved ones, and what you own, may be shared in accordance with intestacy rules.
If you’re about to make a will, here are 6 things that must be included:
- Custody for children
Who should have custody of children that are under the age of 18 at the time of your death, must be included in your will, and while it’s a difficult topic to think about, you must ensure that your children receive the care they need when you die.
- Dividing of your estate
While there may be a lot of questions to answer when it comes to sharing your estate with your family and loved ones, or charitable causes, it’s important to give the topic plenty of thought to eliminate any ambiguities, confusion or upset in the event of your death.
It’s important to consider trust wills as well, as these enable you to nominate someone to spend money from the trust on your behalf, and protect all of your interests. On the flip side, it also enables you to prevent people who shouldn’t gain from your assets, from being able to.
- Residuary estate
Once any debts, legacies, expenses and liabilities have been paid, anything remaining is referred to as being ‘residuary estate’, and including a clause that covers this in your will can help prevent your estate from being what’s known as ‘partially intestate’.
- Pet care
You can also make provisions for your pets in your will, and if you wish, nominate someone to care for them in the event of your death, just as you would with any minor children. However, it’s just as important to discuss your proposal with the intended guardian, to make sure that they’re comfortable with it, and are willing to fulfil the role of guardian to your pet(s). Additionally, should you so wish, you can leave some of your estate to a basic trust fund that can be used to help pay for the care of your pet, and then assign someone that you trust to be fund manager.
- Funeral arrangements
While an individuals last wishes regarding their funeral arrangements are typically respected, any instructions given in a will aren’t legally binding, and it will be the executor’s decision as to exactly what takes place. Should you wish to donate your organs upon your death, have views about how your body is disposed of, or have opinions regarding your headstone, your will is absolutely the best place for these things to be recorded.
You must make sure that your appointed executor is kept up-to-date with your lasting wishes, too.
- The naming of an executor
Whomever you name as executor to your will, is the person who will be responsible for fulfilling your will for you, and if you don’t select one, or the nominated executor isn’t able or willing to fulfil their role, an appropriate administrator will be assigned according to the law. You’re recommended to name an executor in your will, once you’ve made sure that they’re willing and able to fulfil the role.
While writing your will with professional help, you should also make provisions for a lasting power of attorney, and you may find that the same company are able to assist you with both.
