Where To Keep Your Will And Other Documents

Once you've taken the step to create a will and get your estate plan in order, you need to figure out what to do with the will itself.

Keeping track of the location of your current will – as well as any old wills – can be crucial. You want to ensure that your loved ones know how to find the most recent versions of your will and other estate planning documents. This way, they can easily access important information they may need to manage your affairs when you pass away.

Likewise, if you ever were to suffer a serious injury or illness and become unable to communicate your wishes, knowing that your loved ones could locate your most essential documents can offer you peace of mind.

Who Should Keep the Original Copy of a Will?

The original copy of a will is typically kept by the person who created it, known as the testator. However, it’s wise to store it in a safe place or with a trusted estate planning attorney. Some people choose to give a copy to a loved one or to the executor of their estate to ensure that it can be easily accessed when necessary. Clear communication about its location is essential to avoid confusion later.

Read more about where to keep your Will and what to do with old Wills.