Manhattan Will Attorney

What Should Be Included in Your Will?

Wills can range from straightforward documents with a few beneficiaries to complex plans for your many assets.

Most wills should include these types of topics:

• How your assets should be distributed. One of the most important parts of a will is describing your wishes for your assets.
• The name of an executor. An executor should be someone you trust who will oversee your estate.
• Names and contact information for beneficiaries. A will creates an opportunity to name specific family members and other people who will benefit from your estate.
• What happens to any real estate you own. If you have specific plans for your real estate, such as the renovation of a family home, your will should include those instructions.
• Determining who should be guardians for any children you may have. If you have children who are minors, your will can determine who will be responsible for their care after you pass away.
• Whether you have created trusts for use by your beneficiaries. Trusts can be a valuable tool in addition to your will.

What to Gather in Preparation for Making a Will in New York

When it is time to create a will, having the right documents in place can be helpful. As you prepare to draw up your will, collect:

• A list of who you want to benefit from your will and key information about them, such as their full names, birthdates, and contact details
• Information about who you would want to be guardian should you pass away with minor children
• Information about any banking and investment accounts
• Real estate property titles, leases, and other related materials
• Vehicle leases or title documents
• Records of any valuable or special personal property you hold
• Records of any debts you hold, such as mortgages, credit card debt, and loans

Tips for Talking to Your Beneficiaries About Your Estate Plan

Talking about estate plans may be an uncomfortable topic for many families. But by having clear and meaningful conversations with your beneficiaries, you can give them peace of mind.

When it is time to discuss your estate plan, follow these strategies:

• Make your needs and goals from your estate plan clear. By providing information about your own plans, you can reduce your loved ones’ uncertainty and help them plan for their own futures.
• Have the conversations before emergencies arise. Too many people wait until a crucial moment before having the conversations they should. Try not to let that happen to you.
• Seek any financial or legal guidance you need before any discussions. If you anticipate a conflict or have questions, get professional guidance on what your plans mean for your beneficiaries.

Talk to a Wills Lawyer in Manhattan Today

If you are ready to create or update your will, contact Chaves Perlowitz Luftig LLP. Our dedicated Manhattan will attorneys have decades of experience helping people plan their estates. We are available to help you, whether you just need us to draft a will or to develop a comprehensive estate plan for your wealth and your legacy.

For a free consultation about how we can help you achieve your goals, call us today or contact us online.

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