3 Requirements That Will Make Your Will Valid
Writing a will should be at the top of your list. A will is one of the most important legal documents. It seems impossible, but seven out of 10 Americans never get around to writing one. There are good reasons to establish such a document.
When you have children, you are making a lifelong commitment to nurture them. If you decide to not leave a will, then your assets will be divided up without your input. However, it is easy to draw up a will.
Legal forms are available online for different purposes. You can start the process by finding an online form for wills. Read on to find out how to make your will valid.
Must Be Of Sound Mind
If you are making a legal document, then you must be of sound mind when signing the document. It does not matter if a person is forgetful or eccentric. The person must know what they own, be aware of their actions, understand how their property will be distributed and able to identify family and friends. This information makes your will valid.
A person's mental condition determines if someone is of sound mind. If the will creator suffers from depression or dementia, then you can question the person's mental capacity.
Must Be Signed By The Testator
Many states require a testator's signature to be at the bottom of your will. If not, your will is considered invalid. A testator is anyone who has written a valid will.
This signature must be done before witnesses. The testator can have help signing his or her name, but he or she must make it willingly.
Must Name A Beneficiary
One or more beneficiaries must be named on the will to make it valid. Organizations or people named in a will are called beneficiaries. They are the ones that will receive the deceased's assets.
The document must include at least one beneficiary because the property has to go to someone. If not, the document is considered invalid.
If you die without a valid will, then this is called intestacy. This means your assets are divided up according to the law. It also means someone that you did not want to have anything may end up with your assets.
This is a simple problem that can be taken care of by obtaining a legal form. Legal forms for your last will and testament are available on the Internet. After filling out this form, you should have a lawyer look over it.
Contact a business like Carolina Legal Education Center, LLC to learn more.
