online wills

Frequently Asked Questions about Wills

Nov 1, 2022 1:43:27 PM / by Public Trust

No matter how straightforward your circumstances, having a current will makes sure everyone understands what you’d like done with your estate. Your estate is everything you own and any debts you owe when you die.

If you die without a will your loved ones may face difficulty sorting out your wishes and what happens may not be what you would want or expect. Without a will the law determines how your assets are divided and what happens to the people who depend on you.

So we've worked with our partner - Public Trust- pull together some basic information about wills and access to useful videos.

 

1. What is a will?

Your will is often your last message to your loved ones. It is a legal document that is unique to you and can help make sure your assets, the people and things you love are taken care of after you’re gone.

It also specifies who is responsible for carrying out your final wishes; this person is known as the executor of your will.

 

2. Who should have a will?

Every adult should have a will.

 

3. How should I divide my estate?

What sort of things do you need to think about when considering how to divide your estate? What’s the best approach? This  "Deciding how to divide" video explains what you need to think about.

 

4. What's the process after you're gone?

After you’re gone, a process begins to settle your estate as set out in your will. Managing this process is an executor – the person or organisation you name to act on your behalf. Some of tasks include assisting with funeral arrangements, notifying beneficiaries in the will, confirming and distributing assets, paying debts and closing accounts.

 

5. When should I update my will?

It's really important to review your will regularly, especially after any significant events or changes in your life like welcoming a new baby, ending or starting a relationship and buying or selling a home or business.

 

6. What makes a will valid?

To be considered valid, a will must be written by someone of sound mind who is not being coerced or unduly influenced. It needs to be signed by the person making the will and dated and witnessed by at least two people who are not beneficiaries of the will.

 

Find out more

And Remember

 

As a member of HealthCarePlus, you are eligible to a 20% discount. So when your will document is created, remember to use the exclusive HealthCarePlus code below  to get your discount  

HCP20 - for wills
HCPM20 – for mirror wills

For more details, visit our website here: https://healthcareplus.org.nz/online-wills-epas

 

Public Trust

 

Tags: Estate Planning