For many of us, clearing the space in our diaries and finding the motivation to sit down with a solicitor and write a comprehensive and detailed will is, regrettably, low on our list of priorities. This is, of course, primarily down to the fact that wills represent a time we do not wish to consider – a time of grief and upheaval within our family unit.
What is important to remember, however, is the fact that, in lieu of a valid will, our loved ones will find the experience of sorting through our estate and managing their grief all the more difficult. These documents, while hard to create, offer an invaluable roadmap for families to follow in the wake of a death.
With that in mind, it is still no easier to take the plunge and begin to think about making our own wills. To make the process easier – and give you a little insight into what to expect when the time comes for you to begin creating a will with the help of a solicitor – here is a list of five of the most important things for anyone to include within a will.
Of course, it is important for you to bear in mind that creating a will is about more than just writing down your wishes. These documents must be created to a very particular standard, in order to be treated as valid; if not, your estate could be left to the rules of intestacy.
- Money
This is, of course, the most obvious factor to include within the will. From your current account to any half-forgotten savings accounts, it is vital that everything is accounted for and allocated to the right person.
- Property
Alongside money, this is the asset people are least likely to overlook. While the specifics will depend on the nature of your ownership – for instance, if you and your partner are joint tenants, then their rights to the property would supersede anything stipulated within your will – it is important that you take the time to account for any property you own.
- Guardianship
For any parent, considering what might happen to our children in the event of our passing is incredibly difficult – but, by that very nature, it is essential that we take the time to consider it, and put plans in place. Although we cannot hope to mitigate the emotional impact of grief, a will enables us to lay down practicalities that will ensure stability for children.
- Digital Assets
Due to the fact that digital assets represent a relatively recent phenomenon, it is all too easy for us to overlook them. From virtual currencies like Bitcoin, to our electronically stored media – and our wishes for any social media accounts – digital assets must not be forgotten when you write your will.
- Personal Belongings
Dealing with the ‘big stuff’ can often entail overlooking the smaller, more personal items that remain important to us, and our loved ones. Wills are not only documents for money and significant portions of our estate, but also for collating together all our wishes – however big or small.
As such, it is vital that you set aside time to think about any sentimental, personal belongings, and your wishes for them, too. It will mean a great deal to your loved ones.