Creating a will is a vital step for anyone wishing to ensure their wishes are honored after their passing. A single person will is particularly important for individuals without dependents or complex family dynamics. It allows for the clear distribution of assets and can help avoid disputes among heirs. Below are three practical examples of single person wills that illustrate different contexts and asset distributions.
This example is ideal for individuals with straightforward assets, such as personal belongings and savings.
In this scenario, Jane, a 35-year-old professional, wants to ensure her assets are distributed according to her wishes after her passing. She has a savings account and some personal belongings, such as a car and furniture.
Last Will and Testament
I, Jane Doe, residing at 123 Main St, Anytown, State, hereby revoke any prior wills and declare this to be my Last Will and Testament.
1. I appoint my friend, John Smith, as the executor of my estate.
2. I bequeath my savings account, totaling approximately $10,000, to my sister, Emily Doe.
3. I bequeath my car, a 2018 Honda Civic, to my best friend, Sarah Johnson.
4. I bequeath all my personal belongings, including furniture and clothing, to my niece, Lily Doe.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 10th day of October, 2023.
______________________
Jane Doe
Witnesses:
______________________
John Doe
______________________
Mary Roe
Notes: This will is straightforward and ensures that Jane’s assets are distributed among her loved ones. It’s essential to have witnesses to validate the will, which can vary based on state laws.
This example is useful for individuals with specific items of value or sentimental attachments.
Tom, a 50-year-old art collector, wishes to leave his prized possessions to specific friends and family members. He wants to ensure that his art collection and other possessions go to the right people.
Last Will and Testament
I, Tom Brown, residing at 456 Oak Ave, Big City, State, hereby revoke any prior wills and declare this to be my Last Will and Testament.
1. I appoint my brother, Mike Brown, as the executor of my estate.
2. I bequeath my art collection, consisting of five paintings by local artists, to my close friend, Alice Green.
3. I bequeath my vintage guitar to my nephew, Ben Brown.
4. I bequeath my collection of rare books to my sister, Claire Brown.
5. All remaining assets, including my savings and real estate, shall be equally divided among my siblings.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 15th day of October, 2023.
______________________
Tom Brown
Witnesses:
______________________
James White
______________________
Emily Black
Notes: This will allows Tom to specify the distribution of not just monetary assets but also sentimental items. It’s important to be clear about what items are included in the bequests.
This example fits individuals with a variety of assets and wishes to cover all bases.
Emily, a 40-year-old entrepreneur, has various assets, including business interests, a home, and investments. She wants to ensure that all her possessions are accounted for after her death.
Last Will and Testament
I, Emily Carter, residing at 789 Pine St, Smalltown, State, hereby revoke any prior wills and declare this to be my Last Will and Testament.
1. I appoint my friend, Mark Taylor, as the executor of my estate.
2. I bequeath my home located at 789 Pine St to my daughter, Chloe Carter.
3. I bequeath my business, “Carter Designs,” to my business partner, Sarah Lee.
4. I bequeath my investment portfolio to my son, Jake Carter.
5. All other assets, including personal belongings not specifically mentioned, shall be placed in a trust for my children until they reach the age of 25.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 20th day of October, 2023.
______________________
Emily Carter
Witnesses:
______________________
Robert King
______________________
Patricia Queen
Notes: This will covers a wide range of assets and includes a residuary clause that ensures all remaining assets are accounted for, which is crucial for comprehensive estate planning.