Once you’ve included all the necessary details in your will, it’s time to wrap things up and make it official. Here are the steps to finalise your will:
- Review and revise: before finalising your will, take some time to review it and ensure that everything is accurate and reflects your wishes. If you need to make any changes or additions, you can do so by creating a new will or adding a codicil (an amendment to your existing will).
- Signatures: your will needs to be signed to make it legally binding. Sign your will at the end of the document and make sure to date it. It’s also important to have two witnesses present while you sign. The witnesses should be independent individuals who are not beneficiaries named in your will or their spouses.
- Witness signatures: after you’ve signed your will, the witnesses should also sign it in your presence. They need to provide their full names, addresses, and the date of signing. Their role is to confirm that you signed the will voluntarily and that you appeared to be of sound mind at the time.
- Safekeeping: once your will is signed and witnessed, it’s crucial to store it in a safe and accessible place. Inform your executor or a trusted family member about the location of your will, so it can be easily found when needed. Consider keeping a copy with your attorney or in a secure digital format.
- Regular updates: keep in mind that life circumstances and your wishes may change over time. It’s a good practice to review your will periodically, especially after significant events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. If you need to make changes, consult with a legal professional to ensure the updates are properly recorded.
Remember, the process of finalizing a will can vary depending on the laws of your jurisdiction. It’s always advisable to seek guidance from a qualified attorney to ensure that your will meets all legal requirements and reflects your intentions.
