If you’re like most people, estate planning is not high on your list of priorities. Creating a will is essential to safeguard your assets and ensure that your loved ones are accepted maintenance of in the event of your death. But what should you include in your will? Here are several examples.
Money in Savings
This might be the most obvious asset to include in your will, but it’s also one of the most important. Remember to list all of your savings, checking, and other kinds of bank accounts. Some common expenses that may need to be covered include end-of-life care, medical or funeral costs, and probate fees. With money in your estate, your loved ones could take care of any debts you may have. However, by indicating where and how they can access specific funds for certain things, you make it just that much easier on them.
Investments and Brokerage Accounts
Do you have any stocks, bonds, or mutual funds? If so, you’ll want to ensure these are included in your will. The same goes for any brokerage accounts you may have. Remember that your beneficiaries will inherit these assets at the market value on the date of your death, so it’s important to keep your will up-to-date. Keep in mind that some investments may have tax implications, so it’s a good idea to consult with a financial advisor before including them in your will.
Retirement Accounts
These assets will generally pass to your named beneficiaries outside of probate if you have a 401(k), IRA, or another retirement account. Even though it may seem unnecessary, you should still include your children in your will as a precaution. This will ensure that your wishes are carried out and that your loved ones don’t have to jump through any extra hoops to get what’s rightfully theirs. Also, if you have a Roth IRA, be sure to include it in your will – otherwise, your beneficiaries may have to pay taxes on the money they receive.
Life Insurance Policies
If you own a life insurance procedure, you’ll need to include it in your will. Otherwise, the funds from the policy will go to whoever you named as the inheritor, nevertheless of what your will displays. If you modify your intellect about who should receive the money, this could create issues. By including the policy in your will, you can be sure that the money goes to the right person.
Personal Property
Your personal property includes everything you own that doesn’t fall into the category of real estate or investments. This includes things like jewelry, furniture, art, and collectibles. Make a list of everything you want to be included in your will, as well as who should get each item. Keep in mind that some personal property may have sentimental value, so be sure to choose your beneficiaries carefully.
Real Estate
If you own a home or other piece of real estate, this asset should be included in your will. You’ll need to specify who you want to inherit the property, as well as what should happen to it if they can’t or don’t want to take ownership. For example, you may want to give them the option to sell it and split the proceeds among your other beneficiaries. In addition, you’ll need to decide what should happen to any mortgage or other debts you may have against the property.
Business Interests
Any business owner should have this asset included in their will. You’ll need to specify who you want to take over the business, as well as what should happen to it if they can’t or don’t want to. For example, you may like to sell the belongings and split the proceeds among your other beneficiaries. On the other hand, you may want to give them the option to continue running the business. No issue what you prefer, it is vital to put your desires in writing in your will.
So, there you have it – a few things to remember when including assets in your will. Remember, your will is a legal document, so it’s essential to make sure everything is included correctly. If you want to know more about this, consult with wills and probate solicitors London.
Conclusion
By including all your assets in your will, you can be sure that your loved ones will inherit them according to your wishes. Keep in mind that some assets may have special rules or tax implications, so it’s a good idea to consult with a financial advisor before including them in your will. Thanks for reading!
