Who Keeps the Original Copy of My Will? Understanding the Importance of Safekeeping

Creating a will is an important step in estate planning, but it’s not enough to simply write one up and file it away. One of the most important aspects of will preparation is ensuring that the original copy of your will is kept safe and secure. In this article, we’ll explore who keeps the original copy of your will and why it’s so important.

Why is the Original Copy of My Will Important?

The original copy of your will is a legal document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death. It’s important to keep the original copy in a secure location so that it can be found and authenticated when needed. If the original copy of your will is lost or destroyed, it can cause significant problems during the probate process and may even result in your wishes not being carried out.

Who Keeps the Original Copy of My Will?

You have a few options when it comes to storing the original copy of your will. You can keep it yourself, give it to your attorney, or entrust it to a trusted family member or friend. Let’s explore each of these options in more detail:

Keeping It Yourself: You can keep the original copy of your will in a safe deposit box, a fireproof safe, or another secure location in your home. However, this option may not be the best choice, as it can be difficult for your family members to access the will after your death.

Giving It to Your Attorney: Many people choose to entrust their original will to their estate planning attorney. This can be a good option, as your attorney will know how to properly store and secure the document. However, it’s important to ensure that your attorney is trustworthy and that they have a system in place to ensure that your will is easily accessible to your loved ones after your death.

Entrusting It to a Trusted Family Member or Friend: Another option is to give the original copy of your will to a trusted family member or friend. This can be a good choice if you don’t have an attorney or if you don’t want to pay for a safe deposit box. However, it’s important to choose someone who is responsible and who understands the importance of keeping the document safe.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the original copy of your will is an important legal document that outlines your wishes for the distribution of your assets after your death. It’s important to keep the original copy in a secure location that can be easily accessed by your loved ones after your passing. Whether you choose to keep the original copy yourself, give it to your attorney, or entrust it to a trusted family member or friend, make sure that you take the necessary steps to keep it safe and secure.

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