SIMPLE WILL TEMPLATE
THIS WILL is made on [Date].
1. DECLARATION
I, [Full Name], of [Address], being of sound mind and disposing memory, declare this to be my Last Will and Testament, revoking all previous wills and codicils made by me.
2. APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR
- I appoint [Executor Name], of [Executor Address], to be the Executor of this Will.
- If [Executor Name] is unable or unwilling to serve, I appoint [Alternate Executor Name], of [Alternate Executor Address], as alternate Executor.
3. PAYMENT OF DEBTS AND EXPENSES
I direct my Executor to pay all my just debts, funeral expenses, and testamentary expenses as soon as practicable after my death.
4. DISTRIBUTION OF ESTATE
-
Specific Gifts:
I give the following specific gifts to the individuals named below:- [Description of Item or Amount] to [Beneficiary Name], of [Beneficiary Address].
- [Repeat as needed.]
-
Residuary Estate:
I give the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, of whatever kind and wherever located, to [Residuary Beneficiary Name], of [Residuary Beneficiary Address].
If more than one person is named, specify the shares (e.g., "in equal shares").
5. GUARDIANSHIP OF MINOR CHILDREN
If I have any minor children at the time of my death, I nominate [Guardian Name], of [Guardian Address], as guardian of the person and estate of such minor children.
If [Guardian Name] is unable or unwilling to serve, I nominate [Alternate Guardian Name], of [Alternate Guardian Address], as alternate guardian.
6. POWERS OF EXECUTOR
My Executor shall have all powers allowed by law, including but not limited to the power to sell, lease, or distribute any part of my estate, settle claims, and perform any actions necessary to administer my estate in accordance with this Will.
7. GENERAL PROVISIONS
- If any beneficiary named in this Will does not survive me by [Survivorship Period, e.g., "30 days"], their share shall pass to [Alternate Beneficiary or "my residuary beneficiaries in proportion to their shares"].
- If any provision of this Will is held to be invalid, the other provisions shall remain in full effect.
8. GOVERNING LAW
This Will shall be governed by the laws of [State/Country].
9. SIGNATURE
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have signed this Will on the date written above.
Signature of Testator: ___________________________
[Full Name]
10. ATTESTATION BY WITNESSES
We, the undersigned, certify that [Full Name], the Testator, signed and declared this document to be his/her Will in our presence, and we, at the Testator’s request and in his/her presence and in the presence of each other, have signed our names as witnesses.
Witness 1:
Name: ___________________________
Address: ________________________
Signature: ______________________
Date: ___________________________
Witness 2:
Name: ___________________________
Address: ________________________
Signature: ______________________
Date: ___________________________
Disclaimer
This document is a template and may not be suitable for all situations. The parties should consult with legal counsel before signing this agreement.
