Estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes upon your passing. A will accomplishes several important objectives, such as naming beneficiaries. While an attorney can walk you through the process of creating a comprehensive will, you can begin thinking about the following items to include in this document.

What to Include in a Will

1. Major Assets

Assets include what’s in your bank account as well as any items of value, such as vehicles and collectibles. Naming specific beneficiaries for financial and physical assets prevents confusion and disputes among heirs. An attorney will ensure the assets are written up clearly so that there’s no ambiguity that could be misconstrued by the courts or the executor. 

2. Physical Property

In addition to possessions and financial property, consider any real estate you own and who will inherit it. If you’re leaving property to children, you’ll also need to name an individual to manage it.

If you’re married, both you and your spouse will need individual wills. For the possessions you own together, you may only leave your portion to a beneficiary.

3. Guardians

Parents should create a will to ensure their children are cared for by the desired individuals. Under U.S. law, a spouse or next-of-kin, such as a sibling or parent, will automatically receive custody of children.

Declaring a legal guardian in the will ensures your children wind up with the individuals who are best suited to raise them. It can also prevent the need for legal battles and attorney’s fees, as surviving family members could fight to get custody if no guardian has been named. 

If you’re seeking an experienced attorney to draft a will, contact Gilbert P. Kaback, Attorney at Law. This lawyer has served Colchester, CT, for more than two decades and will help you compose a comprehensive will. See his full list of practice areas online, or call (860) 537-0874 to schedule a consultation.