Checklist for Making a Will

Everyone · Checklist · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

When Should You Use a Checklist for Making a Will?

Using a checklist before making or updating a will is essential to avoid missing key details that could cause confusion later. A will is the legal document that directs how your assets are distributed after your death, so preparing it carefully is crucial. For instance, if you’ve recently married, divorced, had a child, bought a home, or started a business, your will should reflect those changes. A checklist guides you in gathering necessary information, identifying beneficiaries, and naming trusted people for important roles. It also helps you decide if you need additional documents such as a living will or power of attorney. Starting with a checklist can make your appointments with an attorney more productive or help you use a reputable online service confidently. Ultimately, using a checklist reduces stress and helps protect your wishes for your loved ones.

What Are the Essential Stages in a Will-Making Checklist?

Creating a will involves several important stages, each requiring specific actions. Breaking your work into clear steps helps you stay organized and thorough. Here’s a detailed checklist with explanations for each stage:

• Gather Personal Information

Record your full legal name, current address, date of birth, and Social Security number for identification. This avoids confusion with namesakes.

• List All Your Assets

Include real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, retirement funds, life insurance policies, valuable personal items (jewelry, art), and digital assets like cryptocurrency or online accounts. For example, if you own a home and a car, list their addresses, make/model, and account numbers if applicable.

• Identify Your Beneficiaries

Decide who will receive your assets—family members, friends, charities, or organizations. Specify full names and relationships. For instance, “I leave my savings account to my daughter, Sarah Johnson.”

• Name an Executor

Choose someone reliable to manage your estate, pay debts, and distribute assets. Discuss this with the person first to confirm willingness.

• Appoint Guardians for Minor Children

If you have children under 18, name guardians who will care for them if you pass away. You can also name alternates in case the first choice is unavailable.

• Detail Specific Bequests

List any particular gifts, such as heirlooms or sums of money to specific individuals. For example, “I give my grandfather’s watch to my nephew, David Lee.”

• Include Alternate Beneficiaries and Executors

Name backups in case primary people cannot inherit or serve.

• Write the Will

Use clear language. You can draft your will with an attorney, use online templates, or write it yourself if your state permits. Avoid vague terms like “my belongings” without specification.

• Sign the Will Properly

Follow your state’s rules for signing and witnessing. Most states require two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. Some states allow notarization.

• Store the Will Safely

Keep your will in a secure location like a safe deposit box or fireproof home safe. Tell your executor where to find it.

This checklist ensures you cover all legal and practical aspects of will-making.

What Are Commonly Skipped Items in Will Preparation?

Many people unintentionally leave out important components of their wills, which can cause delays or disputes after death. Being aware of these common omissions helps you avoid similar mistakes.

• Regular Updates

People often create a will once and forget to update it. Life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, or changes in finances require revisiting your will. For example, if you divorce and don’t update your will, your ex-spouse might still inherit.

• Alternate Beneficiaries and Executors

Without backups, your estate could get tied up in court if primary beneficiaries predecease you or executors refuse to serve.

• Digital Assets

Many overlook social media accounts, email, digital currencies, or online businesses. These should be listed along with instructions for management or deletion.

• Instructions for Debts and Expenses

Including how debts, taxes, and funeral costs should be paid can prevent confusion. For instance, stating “I direct that all my debts and funeral expenses be paid from my estate before distribution” clarifies your wishes.

• Letter of Wishes

A non-binding letter to accompany your will can explain your reasons or provide guidance to executors and beneficiaries but is often neglected.

• Tax Considerations

Some forget to consider how taxes might impact their estate and beneficiaries; consulting a tax professional can be helpful.

Making sure these aspects are addressed helps your estate settle smoothly.

How Can You Keep Your Will Up to Date?

Your will is a living document that should reflect your current situation and preferences. Keeping it updated involves several practical steps:

• Schedule Regular Reviews

Set a calendar reminder to review your will every 3-5 years or after major life changes like marriage, divorce, birth, death of a beneficiary, or significant financial changes.

• Track Changes in Assets

If you buy or sell property, open or close bank accounts, or acquire new investments, update your asset list.

• Reassess Beneficiaries and Guardians

Changes in relationships or circumstances may mean you want to add or remove beneficiaries or guardians.

• Confirm Executors and Alternates

Make sure your named executor and alternates are still willing and able to serve.

• Consult Legal or Financial Advisors

Laws regarding estates can change, and professional advice ensures your will remains valid and tax-efficient.

• Document Changes Clearly

Minor changes can be handled with codicils (amendments) or by creating a new will that revokes older versions. Always follow legal rules for signing amendments.

For example, after a child is born, you might add them as a beneficiary and appoint a guardian if you haven’t already done so. Keeping your will current avoids unintended outcomes and family disputes.

What Exact Wording Should You Use in Your Will?

Clear, precise wording is vital to ensure your will is understood and legally enforceable. Here are examples and tips:

• Identify Yourself Clearly

“I, [Full Name], residing at [Address], being of sound mind, declare this to be my last will and testament.”

• Be Specific About Gifts

“I give my diamond ring to my niece, Emily Parker, currently residing at [Address].”

• Name Executors and Alternates

“I appoint John Smith as executor of this will. If John Smith is unable or unwilling to serve, I appoint Jane Doe as alternate executor.”

• Guardianship for Children

“I appoint Mary Johnson as guardian of my minor children. If Mary Johnson is unable to serve, I appoint David Lee as alternate guardian.”

• General Residue Clause

“I give all the rest and residue of my estate to my spouse, Alex Johnson.”

• Payment of Debts and Expenses

“I direct that all my just debts, funeral expenses, and expenses of administering my estate be paid from my estate as soon as practicable.”

Avoid ambiguous phrases such as “all my personal effects” without listing what you mean or “my best friend” without naming them. Clearly naming people and items prevents legal challenges and confusion.

Where Can You Find More Guidance on Will-Making?

Several official and nonprofit resources provide detailed help on wills:

• The Will Making Checklist: Steps to Create a Valid Will breaks down the process into clear steps and legal requirements.

• For notarization and legal formality questions, review a Notarized Checklist of Requirements.

• If you are an executor, the Executor Checklist for Managing a Will offers practical advice on handling the estate after your passing.

• You can also consult state-specific resources on USA.gov or local legal aid organizations like those listed at LawHelp.org to understand regional laws.

• For digital assets or living wills, look at specialized checklists such as the Living Will Checklist.

Using these resources alongside your checklist ensures you take full control of your estate planning.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use an online template to make my will?

Yes, many reputable websites offer templates, but make sure they comply with your state’s laws, especially regarding signing and witnessing requirements to ensure validity.

What is a codicil, and when should I use one?

A codicil is a legal amendment to your existing will used to make minor changes without rewriting the entire document. It must be signed and witnessed like the original will.

How do I choose a guardian for my children?

Select someone responsible, trustworthy, and willing to raise your children. Discuss your choice with them beforehand and consider their values and lifestyle.

Is a handwritten will valid?

Some states accept handwritten wills (holographic wills) if they meet specific criteria like being entirely in your handwriting and signed, but check your state laws.

What happens if someone contests my will?

Will contests can happen if beneficiaries feel the will is invalid or unfair. Clear wording, proper signing, and legal advice reduce this risk.

How should I store my will?

Keep it in a secure but accessible place, such as a fireproof safe or safe deposit box, and inform your executor where it is stored.