Simple Will Drafting Guide & Template

A will tells others how you want your belongings and care handled. This guide explains the basics and gives a fillable template. It is not legal advice – laws differ by state, so have a lawyer review the final version.

What a will covers

• Who gets your property
• Who handles things (your executor)
• Care for minor children or pets
• Your final wishes

What it does NOT do

A will does not avoid probate by itself, and it does not control accounts with a named beneficiary (retirement, life insurance, payable-on-death bank accounts).

Fillable template

I, ____________, of ____________, being of sound mind, make this will.

1. Executor: I name ____________ as my executor.

2. Gifts: I leave my property as follows: ____________.

3. Pets: My pet ____________ goes to ____________.

4. Signatures: Signed: ____________ Date: ____________
Witness 1: ____________   Witness 2: ____________