What is a last will and testament?

A last will and testament is a document that gives instructions for property handled through a person's estate after death. It can name an executor and nominate guardians. But it has no effect until death and usually must be accepted through a state probate process.

General information

• The person making the will is often called the testator.
• The executor does not receive court authority merely because the will names them.
• A valid will must meet the signing law of the governing state.

Service steps to consider

1. Considering whether to name a primary and backup executor.
2. Identifying beneficiaries and backup beneficiaries.
3. Signing and store the original as instructed.

Quick check

• Are all names spelled the right way?
• Did I name backups?
• Do my account forms match my will?

How Complete Wills can help

Complete Wills' will-based questionnaire can record the names, beneficiaries, executor choices, guardian nominations, and other instructions used to prepare the included documents. The customer remains responsible for reviewing the result and completing the applicable state signing requirements. Support can explain fields but cannot tell the customer whom to choose or how to divide property. Customer support can explain website features and questionnaire fields, but it cannot choose documents, people, distributions, or legal terms, interpret a completed document, or explain how the law applies to a person's facts. Only a separately engaged licensed attorney may provide legal advice within the attorney's engagement.

Important limits

• A will does not control every asset. Title, contract terms, trust ownership, and beneficiary forms may control instead.
• Spousal rights, omitted-family rules, disinheritance, and will-signing rules vary by state and may require an attorney. This article gives general information only. A licensed attorney can explain how state law applies to a specific estate plan or document.