- Date : 17/02/2023
- Read: 3 mins
Writing a will is crucial for the fair distribution of assets among heirs, but writing one can be tricky. Read the article ahead to find out the key details you must include in your will.
Writing a will is a tedious task, which is why very few people in India actually get down to doing it. While estate planning can be complex, especially if you have various investments and assets, it is absolutely necessary to ensure things move smoothly after you pass on. If you don’t know where to begin, we have simplified the process for you.
Key details that you need to include in your will
1. Personal and family details
When writing a will, it is best to start with the basics. Do this by writing down personal and family details. This includes names and addresses, Aadhaar card numbers, and PAN. If there are beneficiaries to your will other than family members, make sure to include their personal information as well.
Also Read: All You Need To Know About Making A Will
2. Banking data
Next comes your banking data. This includes information of all your savings and current accounts and the attached fixed and recurring deposits. Write down the savings and current account numbers, as well as the unique customer ID. You don’t have to mention the FD/RD numbers, as they keep changing once the deposits mature and new ones are created.
3. Insurance
This is extremely important information to capture. Write down the name of the insurance provider, the policy number of your life insurance, where to find a physical and digital copy of the policy, and who the beneficiary of the life insurance is. Please note that life insurance will only be payable to the beneficiary.
Also Read: Why Should Women Have A Will
4. Investments
Here you have to mention the details of all your investments. This could include mutual funds, stocks, PPF, bonds, securities, small savings, and other financial investments. Put down the name of the company issuing your investment, folio number, policy number, account numbers, as well as login and password details to access each of them.
5. Property
In most cases, property such as a house, commercial shop, or land is the most valuable asset a person would own. It is hence imperative to add all the details of the property -full address, plot number, and names of all owners (quite often, a property is in the name of multiple individuals). Also mention where the original property documents are stored.
Also Read: 8 Scenarios When You Need To Consider Revising Your Will
6. Other assets
Lastly, account for all other assets such as jewellery, art, collectables, etc. Jot down descriptions of each item, where they are stored (bank locker, warehouse, or at home), and how to access them.
Conclusion
While it may seem overwhelming at first, going step by step will make creating a will easy. Moreover, ensuring all the above information is correctly documented will ensure a hassle-free execution of the will when the time comes.
