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What to not include in your will?

On Behalf of | Mar 17, 2021 | Estate Planning |

When creating a will in Maryland, it’s important to know what to include in the document to ensure it is valid. You’ll need to be specific about who you want to obtain your assets by listing your beneficiaries. You’ll need to choose an executor, and also name the guardians you want for your children.

With estate planning, the legal document will need to be signed in front of other witnesses. You’ll also need to know what not to include in your will to avoid any mistakes or issues and to inform your loved ones about what will and won’t be included in your will before your death.

What should you not include in your will?

A will should never include funeral plans and what your wishes are because the document won’t be reviewed until after the funeral takes place. Instead, discuss these details with your family members in advance.

Avoid leaving any property or assets to any pets you may own in the will because animals aren’t legally capable of owning any assets. The state may end up obtaining anything you attempt to leave to pets. When drafting the will, avoid trying to escape estate taxes if you want to avoid giving your money away to the state with your estate planning. Instead, resort to creating a trust to protect your assets and finances.

Who can you contact for legal assistance?

Contact an attorney to obtain assistance with estate planning to ensure that your document is valid and that your assets and money are given to the right people once you pass away. A legal professional can inform you about how to create the document and about common mistakes to avoid. An attorney can also provide you with state-specific last will and testament forms so that you can get started and know the right steps to take.