Pennsylvania Simple Will Examples

Explore practical examples of simple wills specific to Pennsylvania to understand how to create your own.
By Jamie

Understanding Simple Wills in Pennsylvania

A simple will is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets will be distributed after their death. In Pennsylvania, creating a will can be straightforward, especially when using a simple format. Below are three diverse examples of Pennsylvania simple wills that illustrate different scenarios and needs.

Example 1: Basic Family Will

In this example, a married couple with two children establishes a simple will to ensure their assets are transferred smoothly to their heirs.

John and Jane Smith, residing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, want to ensure that their children, Emily and Michael, inherit their estate. They have a modest home, a savings account, and some personal belongings they wish to distribute equally.

John and Jane’s will may look like this:

Last Will and Testament of John and Jane Smith
Date: [Date]
I, John Smith, and I, Jane Smith, residing at [Address], declare this to be our Last Will and Testament.
Article I: Upon my death, I give, devise, and bequeath all my estate, both real and personal, to my children, Emily Smith and Michael Smith, in equal shares.
Article II: In the event that either child predeceases me, their share shall be distributed equally among their surviving children.
Article III: I nominate and appoint Jane Smith as my Executor. If she is unable to serve, I nominate Emily Smith.
Article IV: This will is made in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Notes:

  • This example is straightforward and ensures that both children receive equal shares of the estate.
  • It’s crucial that both spouses sign the will and date it appropriately.

Example 2: Will for a Single Parent

This example features a single parent who wants to secure the future of their child. Jessica is a single mother living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and wishes to designate guardianship for her minor child, Ava.

Jessica’s will reflects her wishes regarding both her assets and the care of her daughter:

Last Will and Testament of Jessica Taylor
Date: [Date]
I, Jessica Taylor, residing at [Address], declare this to be my Last Will and Testament.
Article I: I appoint my sister, Laura Taylor, as the guardian of my daughter, Ava Taylor.
Article II: Upon my death, I give, devise, and bequeath all my estate, including my house located at [Address] and my savings account, to my daughter, Ava Taylor.
Article III: Should Ava predecease me, I direct that her share shall be distributed to her surviving descendants, if any.
Article IV: I nominate and appoint Laura Taylor as my Executor, with the power to manage my estate as permitted by law.

Notes:

  • This will emphasizes guardianship and is critical for single parents to consider.
  • In Pennsylvania, it’s important to have a backup guardian in mind in case the primary guardian cannot serve.

Example 3: Will for a Blended Family

In this scenario, Robert and Linda are a blended family with children from previous marriages. They reside in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and want to ensure equitable distribution among all children.

Robert and Linda decide on specific bequests to provide clarity in their will:

Last Will and Testament of Robert and Linda Johnson
Date: [Date]
We, Robert Johnson and Linda Johnson, residing at [Address], declare this to be our Last Will and Testament.
Article I: We give, devise, and bequeath our estate as follows:

  1. To our son, Jake Johnson, we leave our family home at [Address].
  2. To Linda’s daughter, Sarah, we leave a sum of $10,000 from our joint savings account.
  3. To Robert’s daughter, Emma, we leave our vacation property located at [Address].

Article II: In the event that any of our children predecease us, their share shall be distributed to their surviving children.
Article III: We nominate and appoint each other as Executors, with the understanding that if one of us cannot serve, the other will act as the sole Executor.

Notes:

  • This example illustrates how blended families can address complex distribution needs.
  • It’s advisable to review and update the will regularly, especially after significant life changes.

These examples of Pennsylvania simple will example provide a foundation for understanding how to create your own will while considering unique family dynamics and asset distribution. Always consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with state laws and personal circumstances.