Will worksheet
Gather everything your attorney needs to draft a proper will. Take this filled out to your attorney appointment.
A will is a state-law legal document with specific signing, witness, and notarization requirements that vary by state. A do-it-yourself will is invalid in many cases — and an invalid will can lead to intestate probate, family conflict, and unintended outcomes. This worksheet helps you arrive at the attorney appointment with all your decisions already made, which often cuts attorney time and cost in half.
Fill out the worksheet
| Full name | DOB | Relationship | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Relationship | Address |
|---|---|---|
The person responsible for carrying out your will. Choose someone organized, trustworthy, and likely to outlive you. Discuss in advance — they should agree.
Examples: jewelry, family heirlooms, vehicles, specific bank accounts. List each item AND the recipient. Anything not specifically listed becomes part of the residuary estate.
| Item | Recipient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Example: 'Spouse if living, otherwise equally to children, otherwise equally to grandchildren per stirpes.' Your attorney will phrase this properly — just describe your intent.
If you have minor children, you can nominate a guardian. The court ultimately decides but typically follows your nomination.
Cremation vs. burial, location, religious considerations, donate body to science, etc. Often goes in a separate Letter of Instruction (see that template) but worth thinking through.
- ·Bring a list of all your assets (bank accounts, brokerage, real estate, retirement accounts, life insurance) — your attorney will need this.
- ·Bring divorce decrees if applicable — they affect beneficiary defaults.
- ·Discuss tax planning if your estate may exceed federal/state thresholds (federal $13.99M individual, lower for some states).
- ·After signing: keep original in a safe place that your executor can access. Some attorneys store originals.
SmartSeniorX is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This worksheet is an educational organizer to help you gather your information BEFORE meeting with a licensed attorney in your state. Worksheets are NOT legal documents. To create a valid will, power of attorney, or healthcare directive, work with a licensed attorney in your state. State-specific signing, witness, and notarization requirements apply.