After working hard to build a life, you want to ensure your wealth and property goes where you want them to.
While a recent Caring.com survey noted that two out of three adults do not have a will, people who have taken the time to make end-of-life plans want family members to accept their decisions. Instead of hoping that happens, the following tips may help ensure that it does.
1. Include a no-contest clause
Simple yet usually effective, ensuring your will has a no-contest clause deters people from challenging a will. This clause states that while they have the right to contest it, they will not receive anything from the estate if they lose. Ensure you leave the person enough to make filing a claim not worth their time.
2. Communicate your wishes
While you should not flaunt everything in your will, you also do not want pure secrecy. Letting loved ones know your decisions and why you made them ensures no surprises. It also means they get the time to come to terms with your final wishes.
3. Avoid the appearance of undue influence
If you have a close family member or friend that takes care of you, other family members may think that person has some control over what you put in your will. To avoid that, consider going to the doctor to prove competency before drafting a will. As you work on the will, always do so alone. That includes not getting a ride from a family member. While signing it, video record for further proof of competency.
While you hope your family adheres to your legal will, grief has a way of making people act out of character.
