- In most states, you must be 18 years of age or older to create a will.
- To be valid, a will must be written when you are of sound judgment and have adequate mental capacity.
- The document must clearly state that it is your will. You must name an executor
of your will. An executor will ensure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes. - It is not necessary to notarize or record your will, but doing so can safeguard any claims that it is invalid. For your will to be valid, it must be signed in the presence of at least two witnesses.
- A financial will and testament will always supersede a last will and testament when bestowing financial assets.
- Some states have community property laws that entitle your surviving legal spouse to keep at least half of your assets after you die. This applies no matter what percentage of your assets you leave them in your will.
- International wills might be subject to other laws.
SOURCE: USA.gov site. Family legal issues. https:// www.usa.gov/family-legal#item-212733. Accessed 28 May 2019. NHR
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