Wills for young adults

Young adults 18–24 · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What is a will in simple words?

A will, sometimes called a “last will and testament,” is a legal paper where you write down how you want your belongings and responsibilities handled after you pass away. This includes money, personal items like a phone or jewelry, digital accounts (like social media), and any special care instructions for people or pets depending on you. Writing a will means you speak for yourself even when you’re no longer here, instead of leaving decisions to state laws.

For example, if you have a pet dog, you can name a friend who will take care of it. Or if you have a collection of books or your savings account, you can decide who should receive those. Without a will, the state decides who gets what, which may not match your wishes, and that process can be stressful for family or friends.

A will only becomes active after you die. It does not affect your day-to-day life or property while you are alive. You can change or cancel it anytime until your death. Having a will gives you a voice over your belongings and responsibilities, no matter your age or how much you own.

How does a will work? A detailed example

Suppose you’re 20 years old and work part-time, earning $400 monthly. You own a laptop, a bicycle, and some savings in your bank account. You want your older sister to get the laptop, your best friend to have your bicycle, and your savings to go to a charity you care about. Also, you have a younger sibling under 18, and you want your cousin to be their guardian if something happens to you and your parents.

Here’s how a will would work:

1. You write down all your belongings you want to include.
2. You name who should get each item — laptop to sister, bicycle to friend, savings to charity.
3. You specify that your cousin should be the legal guardian for your younger sibling.
4. You name an executor, the person who will make sure your will is followed (this can be a trusted adult or family member).
5. You sign the will in front of the number of witnesses your state requires (usually two).
6. You keep the original will in a safe place and tell the executor where it is.

When you pass away, the executor presents your will to a court to begin the "probate" process, where a judge makes sure the will is valid and oversees distributing your belongings as you directed. This avoids family guessing or fighting over your stuff.

Without a will, the court would assign guardianship and divide your belongings based on state laws, which might give your possessions to people you wouldn’t have chosen or delay care for your sibling. Having a will gives you control and peace of mind.

Why does having a will matter for young adults?

Many young adults think wills are only for older people or those with lots of assets, but life can be unpredictable at any age. Accidents or sudden illness can happen, and a will lets you decide what happens to your things and responsibilities. This is especially important if you have younger siblings or pets who rely on you.

Having a will also helps prevent family disagreements. Imagine if you wanted your best friend to have your laptop but you don’t have a will — your family might not agree, causing stress for everyone. A will clearly explains your wishes, making the process smoother.

Moreover, creating a will now means you build good habits for future planning and can update it as your life changes. For example, if you move, start a new job, or enter a relationship, you can adjust your will to match your new life.

Having a will also can save time and money for your loved ones. Without clear instructions, courts may get involved longer, sometimes costing more in legal fees. Planning ahead reduces this burden.

Even if you don’t have much property, a will can cover digital accounts, personal items with sentimental value, and guardianship decisions, all of which matter.

What legal terms do people often confuse with wills?

Many people mix up wills with other legal documents related to end-of-life or decision-making plans. Knowing the difference helps you choose what fits your needs.

• Living Will: This document outlines your preferences for medical treatment if you become seriously ill and can’t communicate. It covers things like life support or emergency care. It only applies while you’re alive, unlike a will, which takes effect after death.

• Durable Power of Attorney (POA): This lets you name someone to make decisions for you if you become unable to act yourself. This can cover financial, legal, or medical matters depending on the type of POA. It is active while you live but can’t override your will.

• Trust: A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee manages your assets for the benefit of others. Trusts can avoid probate but are usually more complex and suited for larger estates or special needs.

Understanding these helps avoid confusion. For example, a living will does not decide who gets your belongings after death; that’s what a will does. A power of attorney does not distribute your property; it helps with decisions while you’re alive.

How to write your own will: practical steps for young adults

Writing your own will might seem intimidating, but it’s manageable if you break it down. Here’s a step-by-step guide with examples and tips:

1. Start by listing your assets and responsibilities. Include items like your car, computer, bank accounts, clothes, and digital accounts (email, social media). Also consider any dependents, like younger siblings or pets.

1. Choose your beneficiaries. These are the people or organizations who will receive your belongings. For example: “I leave my bicycle to my friend Taylor.” “I give my savings account to the local animal shelter.”

1. Name a guardian for any dependents. You might say: “If I am unable to care for my younger sister, I appoint my cousin Jordan as her guardian.”

1. Pick an executor. This person manages your will’s instructions after your death. Choose someone responsible and willing to take on the role, like a trusted family member or close friend.

1. Write your will clearly. Use simple language. For example: “I, [Your Full Name], declare this to be my last will and testament. I revoke all previous wills. I appoint [Executor’s Full Name] as executor. I give my laptop to [Sister’s Full Name].”

1. Sign your will with witnesses. Most states require two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. They watch you sign and then sign themselves to confirm.

1. Store your will safely. Keep the original in a secure place, like a locked file or safe. Tell your executor or a trusted person where it is.

You can find free or low-cost will templates online or at legal aid organizations. For more complex estates or if you want personalized advice, consider a lawyer.

What mistakes to avoid when making your own will?

To make sure your will is valid and your wishes are followed, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not following state rules: Each state has rules about how many witnesses you need, how to sign, and other formalities. Check your state’s requirements carefully.

• Naming beneficiaries unclearly: Instead of “to my friend,” use full names and relationships, like “to my friend Emily Johnson.”

• Forgetting digital assets: Include instructions for online accounts or social media, or name someone who can access them.

• Not updating the will: Life changes like moving, new relationships, or acquiring property mean your will should be reviewed regularly.

• Choosing an unavailable executor or guardian: Ensure the people you name are willing and able to serve in those roles.

• Leaving out a residuary clause: This clause covers any property not specifically mentioned, preventing it from being left unassigned.

By avoiding these mistakes, your will will be clearer and more effective.

What to do after creating your will?

Creating your will is just the start. Here’s what to do next:

• Tell important people: Let your executor and any guardians know about your will and where to find it. This prevents confusion when it’s needed.

• Keep your will updated: Review your will every few years or after major life changes (like graduation, moving, relationships).

• Consider related documents: You might also want a living will or power of attorney to cover medical or financial decisions while you’re alive.

• Store safely but accessibly: Keep the will where it’s safe but accessible to trusted people. Avoid hiding it too well.

• Seek help if unsure: If your situation changes or becomes complicated, consult a lawyer for guidance.

Having a will is just one part of planning, but it gives you control and peace of mind. You’re making a responsible choice for yourself and those who care about you.

Frequently asked questions

Can a handwritten will be valid for young adults?

Yes, a handwritten will (called a holographic will) can be valid in some states if it meets specific rules, like being signed and clearly stating your wishes. However, these can be harder to prove, so using a typed and witnessed will is safer.

How often should I update my will?

Update your will whenever you experience major life changes, such as moving, changing jobs, getting married or divorced, having children, or acquiring significant property. Reviewing it every few years is a good habit.

What if I want to change my will later?

You can update your will anytime by creating a new will or adding a codicil, which is a legal document that modifies your existing will. Make sure to follow your state’s rules for signing and witnessing updates.

Can I include funeral wishes in my will?

Yes, you can include funeral or memorial preferences in your will, but since wills are often read after the funeral, it’s best to share these wishes directly with family or in a separate document.

Does having a will mean I avoid probate court?

No, a will usually goes through probate court, which oversees validating the will and distributing assets. Probate can take time, but having a will generally makes the process smoother than if there’s no will.