How to Prepare Will Online: Everything You Need to Know

Creating a will is an essential step in planning for the future. It ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Thanks to technology, you no longer need to visit a lawyer’s office to draft a will. You can now prepare will online, making the process more accessible, affordable, and convenient. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing a will online, including the benefits, steps, and legal requirements.

Why You Should Prepare Will Online

Preparing a will online offers several advantages over traditional methods. First, it saves time. Instead of scheduling appointments and waiting for meetings, you can complete your will at your own pace from the comfort of your home. Many online platforms provide user-friendly interfaces that guide you through the process step-by-step.

Second, it is cost-effective. Hiring an attorney to draft a will can be expensive, especially if your estate is straightforward. Online will preparation services often charge a flat fee or subscription, which is usually much lower than legal fees.

Third, it provides flexibility. You can update your will anytime as your circumstances change, such as after a marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. Most online services allow you to make edits easily without starting from scratch.

Finally, online will preparation can be secure. Reputable platforms use encryption and secure storage to protect your personal information and documents.

Preparing a will online on a laptop

How to Prepare Will Online: Step-by-Step Guide

If you decide to prepare will online, here is a simple process to follow:

1. Choose a reliable online will preparation service

   Research and select a platform with good reviews, clear pricing, and legal compliance. Some popular options include LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, and Trust & Will.

   
   

2. Create an account and start your will

   Sign up and begin the questionnaire. The platform will ask about your personal details, beneficiaries, assets, and guardianship preferences.

   
   

3. List your assets and beneficiaries

   Be specific about what you own and who should receive each item or portion of your estate. This can include property, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings.

   
   

4. Name an executor

   The executor is responsible for managing your estate and ensuring your wishes are carried out. Choose someone trustworthy and capable.

   
   

5. Decide on guardianship for minor children

   If you have children under 18, name a guardian who will care for them if you pass away.

   
   

6. Review and finalize your will

   Carefully check all information for accuracy. Most platforms allow you to preview the document before completing it.

   
   

7. Print, sign, and witness your will

   Follow your state’s legal requirements for signing and witnessing. This often involves signing in front of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries.

   
   

8. Store your will safely with WillSitter.com

   Storing your will electronically with WillSitter.com offers several advantages:

   • Accessibility: An electronic will can be accessed from anywhere at any time, ensuring that your important documents are always available when needed.

   • Security: WillSitter.com provides secure storage options that protect your will from loss, damage, or unauthorized access.

   • Easy Updates: Updating information, such as the list of contacts to notify upon your passing or the list of assets and liabilities, is simpler when stored electronically, enabling quick modifications without the need for physical reprints.

   • Environmentally Friendly: By storing your will electronically, you reduce paper waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.

   • Collaboration: Sharing your will with trusted individuals or legal advisors is easy, facilitating communication and ensuring everyone is informed.

   • Backup Options: Electronic storage enables multiple backups, ensuring your data will remain safe even if one copy is lost or damaged.

   
   
   
   

What is required for a will to be valid in Kentucky?

If you live in Kentucky, there are specific legal requirements you must meet to be considered valid:

• Age and capacity: You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind when creating the will.

• Written document: The will must be in writing. Kentucky does not recognize oral wills.

• Signature: You must sign the will or direct someone to sign it on your behalf in your presence.

• Witnesses: Two competent witnesses must sign the will in your presence. These witnesses should not be beneficiaries to avoid conflicts.

• Voluntary act: The will must be made voluntarily, without coercion or undue influence.

  
  

Following these rules ensures your will is legally binding and can be executed without issues.

Signed will document ready for legal processing

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing a Will Online

While preparing a will online is convenient, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls:

• Not updating your will: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, or new children require updates to your will. Review it regularly.

• Choosing the wrong executor: Pick someone reliable who understands their responsibilities.

• Failing to list all assets: Omitting assets can cause confusion and disputes.

• Ignoring state laws: Each state has unique requirements. Make sure your will complies with your state’s rules.

• Not having witnesses: Skipping the witnessing step can invalidate your will.

  
  

By being mindful of these mistakes, you can create a clear and effective will.

Additional Tips for Effective Will Preparation

To make the most of your online will preparation, consider these tips:

• Be specific: Clearly describe assets and beneficiaries to avoid ambiguity.

• Include alternate beneficiaries: Name backups in case your primary beneficiaries predecease you.

• Consider trusts: For complex estates, a trust might be more appropriate. Some online services offer trust creation as well.

• Communicate your wishes: Talk to your family and executor about your plans to prevent surprises.

• Keep documents accessible: Ensure your executor knows where to find your will and related documents. WillSitter.com removes the concern of the will being handed to your executor in a timely manner for execution (to know more, visit www.willsitter.com/services)

  
  

Implementing these strategies will help ensure your will fulfills its intended purpose effectively.

Where to Go From Here

Preparing a will online is a practical and efficient way to secure your legacy. Whether you have a simple estate or more complex needs, online tools can guide you through the process with ease. Remember to choose a reputable service, follow your state’s legal requirements, and keep your will updated.

If you are ready to start, explore trusted platforms that specialize in online will preparation and take control of your future today. Taking this step now can save your loved ones time, money, and stress later.

Reviewing a printed will document at home

By understanding how to prepare will online and following best practices, you can create a legally sound will that reflects your wishes and protects your family.