As an estate planning attorney, I’ve seen even well-crafted wills miss the mark on key details. While most people remember to include major assets like homes and financial accounts, they often overlook other important provisions. These omissions can lead to stress, conflict, and unnecessary expenses for your loved ones. Let’s look at some of the most commonly forgotten elements:
1. Naming a Guardian for Pets
Pets are part of the family, but the law treats them as property. If your will doesn’t name someone to care for them, your beloved pets could end up in a shelter or with someone unfamiliar with their needs. Be sure to designate a caretaker and consider setting aside funds for their care.
2. Managing Digital Assets and Passwords
Your online presence holds significant personal and financial value. Appoint a digital executor and include instructions for handling email accounts, social media profiles, cryptocurrency, digital photos, and online subscriptions if you become incapacitated or pass away.
3. Distributing Sentimental Items
Families often argue over sentimental items—not the expensive stuff, but things like a recipe book, holiday ornaments, or family photo albums. I recommend preparing a personal property memorandum to clearly outline who should receive these treasured possessions.
4. Explicitly Disinheriting Someone
If you plan to exclude someone who might expect to inherit, such as an estranged child, say so directly in your will. Leaving it vague or silent can open the door for legal challenges and disputes.
5. Naming Alternate Beneficiaries
If a primary beneficiary dies before you, and no alternate is named, the state may decide where those assets go. Always list contingent beneficiaries to ensure your wishes are followed.
6. Including Funeral and Burial Instructions
Don’t rely on verbal instructions alone. While you can include your funeral and burial preferences in your will, it’s wise to also leave a separate, accessible letter for your family. Wills are often read too late to help with immediate arrangements.
7. Planning for Business Succession
If you own a business, your will should outline what happens to your ownership share. Without guidance, your business partners might end up working with your heirs—creating confusion or operational problems.
8. Providing Care Instructions for Loved Ones with Special Needs
Naming a guardian for a dependent with special needs isn’t enough. You’ll also want to leave detailed instructions about medical care, routines, and accommodations to help maintain continuity in their daily life.
Taking The Next Step
These are just a few of the often-overlooked pieces in a complete estate plan. Everyone’s circumstances are different, and working with Sechler Law Firm ensures your documents fully reflect your wishes.
Your will is more than a legal form—it’s your final message to the people you love. Make it thoughtful, detailed, and complete.
Need help creating or reviewing your estate plan? Contact our office at 724 841 1393 to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you protect what matters most.
