Names an Executor
A will can name the person trusted to help carry out final instructions and handle estate responsibilities.
End-of-Life Preparation Guide
Last Will & Testament
A last will and testament is one of the most important documents in an end-of-life plan. It helps explain how property, belongings, and final instructions should be handled after death.
This page is for general education and organization only. A will is a legal document, so it is wise to speak with a qualified estate planning attorney before making decisions.
What this page helps you do
- Understand what a will is
- Know what information to gather
- Think through important decisions
- Preview or print a preparation worksheet
- Return to your end-of-life planning checklist
Plain-English Explanation
What is a Last Will & Testament?
A last will and testament is a legal document that states what should happen to certain property and belongings after a person dies. It can name who should receive personal items, money, family keepsakes, real estate, or other assets that are handled through the will.
A will can also name an executor. The executor is the person responsible for carrying out the instructions in the will, handling paperwork, communicating with the court when required, and helping settle the estate.
A will does not always control every asset. Some accounts may pass through beneficiary designations, joint ownership, trusts, or other arrangements. That is one reason it is important to review a will alongside insurance policies, retirement accounts, bank accounts, property titles, and other planning documents.
Why It Matters
A will can reduce confusion for loved ones.
Without clear instructions, family members may not know what a person wanted. A will can help create a more organized path for handling belongings, naming decision-makers, and reducing disagreements during an already emotional time.
Explains Wishes
A will can describe who should receive certain belongings, property, or family keepsakes.
Supports Family Clarity
A written plan can make it easier for loved ones to understand what should happen next.
Before You Meet With a Professional
Information to gather for a will
Preparing this information ahead of time can make a conversation with an attorney or estate planning professional more productive.
Family and Beneficiaries
Names of spouse, children, grandchildren, relatives, friends, or organizations you may want to include.
Assets and Property
Home, land, vehicles, bank accounts, personal items, family heirlooms, and other belongings.
Executor Choice
The person you trust to carry out instructions, stay organized, and communicate with family or professionals.
Beneficiary Designations
Life insurance, retirement accounts, bank accounts, and other assets that may already name beneficiaries.
Special Gifts
Specific items, keepsakes, jewelry, photos, collections, or sentimental belongings you want to mention.
Questions and Concerns
Anything unclear, such as blended family issues, minor children, debts, property in another state, or family conflict.
Related Guide
Will vs. Trust
A will and a trust are not the same thing. Some families may only need a will, while others may want to ask about whether a trust makes sense. The right choice depends on assets, family situation, privacy concerns, state laws, and personal goals.
Printable Worksheet
Last Will Preparation Notes
Use this worksheet to organize thoughts before speaking with a qualified professional. It is not a legal document and should not be treated as a completed will.
Last Will Preparation Notes
Use this worksheet to prepare for a conversation with an attorney or estate planning professional.
1. Basic Information
Full legal name:
Date:
State / location:
2. People You May Want to Include
- Spouse or partner
- Children
- Grandchildren
- Other relatives
- Friends
- Charities, churches, or organizations
3. Possible Executor
First choice:
Backup choice:
Questions about executor responsibilities:
4. Assets and Property to Review
- Home or real estate
- Vehicles
- Bank accounts
- Retirement accounts
- Life insurance
- Personal belongings and keepsakes
- Collections, jewelry, photos, or sentimental items
5. Special Gifts or Instructions
Item or gift:
Person or organization:
Notes:
Additional notes:
6. Questions to Ask a Professional
- Does a will cover everything I own?
- Do I need to update beneficiary forms?
- Should I consider a trust?
- How often should my will be reviewed?
- Where should the original document be stored?
Reminder: This worksheet is for organization only. It is not a legal document.
Common Questions
Last Will & Testament FAQ
Is this worksheet the same as a legal will?
No. This worksheet is only for preparation and organization. A legal will should be created or reviewed with a qualified professional according to the laws where you live.
Who should be the executor?
An executor is usually someone trustworthy, organized, and willing to handle responsibilities after death. It may be helpful to name a backup executor as well.
Does a will cover life insurance and retirement accounts?
Not always. Life insurance, retirement accounts, and some bank accounts may pass by beneficiary designation. Those forms should be reviewed separately.
How often should a will be reviewed?
Many people review estate planning documents after major life changes, such as marriage, divorce, death of a loved one, moving, major purchases, or changes in family relationships.