5 Tips on How to Prepare a Will

Did you know that roughly 60% of Americans don’t have a will?

The top reason why so many adults don’t have estate plans is that they simply haven’t gotten around to doing it yet. The truth is, no matter how old you are, taking the time to prepare a will is essential.

Want to make the job less stressful? Keep reading for 5 tips on how to prepare a will.

1. Take Some Time to Consider Your Options

Before you can make a will, you need to think carefully about how you want your assets dispersed. You’ll need to name beneficiaries and an executor of your will. If you don’t want to give a loved one the job of executing your will, you can always hire a legal or financial institution.

If you have children, you’ll also need to think about who you’d want to take over as their guardian. Once you’ve come to a decision you’re comfortable with, you can start taking the steps for creating your will.

2. Find a Good Lawyer to Help You Create a Will

Although you can create your own will, it’s worth finding the right professional who can make the job easy and fast. Since there is so much at stake, you want to feel confident that your will is legal, accurate, and helpful for your loved ones after you pass.

3. How to Prepare a Will: Bring the Necessary Legal Documents

After you find the right lawyer who meets your needs, they should explain everything you need to bring to the appointment.

In order to prepare a will, you’ll likely have to bring several documents that prove your ownership of all of your belongings. This can include bank statements, deeds, tax files, life insurance documents, and any other prior estate planning documents if you have them.

Before you go to your appointment, double check that you have all of the necessary paperwork.

4. Make a Will That’s Crystal Clear

Although your lawyer will do all of the heavy lifting, you still need to be clear about how you want your assets dispersed. If there are any uncertainties, this can cause unnecessary fighting and stress for your beneficiaries.

Are you worried about misunderstandings or hurt feelings? Don’t worry. Your lawyer can also attach a personal letter to your will so you have the opportunity to say goodbye and explain your wishes.

5. Finalizing Wills Can Require Different Steps

Depending on where you live, your state could have different laws in place to legalize a will. If you hire a lawyer, they should be able to take care of these final steps for you.

In some cases, you may need to have witnesses who are not cited as beneficiaries sign your will. Many wills also need to be notarized and filed by your county clerk. If you have any questions, your lawyer will be happy to walk you through the legal process.

Need Help Creating a Will?

Now that you know how to prepare a will, you can start taking legal measures to feel secure about your future.

Do you live in Colorado and need help with your estate planning? Colorado Estate Planners would love to assist you. Contact us to learn more about how we make the process easy and personalized.