When you've made the important decision to create a will, it's crucial to know where to keep it safe. While many people think of storing it with their solicitor, there are times when keeping the original will at home or with another trusted individual makes more sense. This is where a Sample Letter Keeping Original Will can be incredibly useful. It serves as a clear and documented instruction, ensuring that your executor knows exactly where to find your vital document when the time comes, and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Why Keeping Your Original Will Matters
The original document of your will is the legally binding one. While copies can be helpful for reference, it's the signed, witnessed original that will be presented to the probate court. Therefore, ensuring its safekeeping is of paramount importance to avoid delays, disputes, or the potential invalidation of your wishes.
There are several common scenarios where keeping the original will yourself might be preferred:
- Convenience: You may wish to have direct access to your will for review or amendment.
- Trust: You might have a trusted family member or friend whom you wish to entrust with its safekeeping.
- Cost: Some people opt to keep their own will to avoid solicitor storage fees.
Regardless of your reason, a letter accompanying your will is essential. Consider this a mini-guide to its location:
| Document | Purpose | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Original Will | Legally binding document | [Specify Location Here] |
| Copy of Will | For reference | [Specify Location Here] |
Sample Letter Keeping Original Will with Family Member
Dear [Name of Executor/Trusted Family Member],
This letter is to inform you that I have made my last will and testament, and the original signed document is being kept [State the exact location, e.g., in the locked filing cabinet in my study, inside the red document box in the attic]. I have also placed a copy of my will in [State location of copy, e.g., my personal safe deposit box at the bank, with my solicitor, Mr. Smith at Legal & Co.].
I trust you implicitly and wanted you to be aware of its location so that, should anything happen to me, you can locate it easily and without undue stress. Please ensure that you only retrieve and act upon the original signed document.
With much love and trust,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Keeping Original Will in a Safe Deposit Box
Subject: Important Document - Location of My Will
Dear [Name of Executor],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to let you know that I have recently updated my will, and the original signed document is currently stored securely in my safe deposit box at [Name of Bank], box number [Box Number]. I have given [Name of Bank] instructions that upon notification of my passing, they should allow you, as my executor, access to the box to retrieve the contents, including my original will.
A copy of my will can be found [State location of copy, e.g., in my desk drawer at home, with my solicitor].
Please keep this information confidential. I appreciate your willingness to act as my executor.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter Keeping Original Will at Home in a Specific Place
Dear [Name of Executor],
This letter serves as notification that my original last will and testament is kept at my home. Specifically, you will find it [Describe the exact location clearly, e.g., in the fireproof safe located in the master bedroom wardrobe, within the blue folder labelled "Important Documents" on the top shelf of the hall cupboard].
I have chosen to keep it here for ease of access. Please ensure that you only take the original document for probate purposes. A copy is available [State location of copy, e.g., in my personal files in the study, with my solicitor].
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Keeping Original Will with a Trusted Friend
Subject: My Will - A Quick Note
Hi [Friend's Name],
Hope you're doing well.
Just a quick email to let you know that I've been meaning to make sure you're aware of where my original will is. I've entrusted it to your care, and it's currently located [State the exact location where you have given it to your friend, e.g., in the secure storage unit we discussed, within the marked envelope you have].
I have also kept a copy at home [State location of copy, e.g., in my bedside table drawer] for my own reference. I really appreciate you holding onto the original for me; it gives me great peace of mind.
Thanks again for everything.
Best,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, creating a will is only the first step; ensuring its secure and accessible storage is equally vital. Using a Sample Letter Keeping Original Will, whether you choose to store it at home, with a trusted friend, or in a safe deposit box, provides a clear and documented way for your executor to locate this critical document. This simple yet effective measure can prevent significant stress and potential complications for your loved ones during a difficult time, ensuring your final wishes are carried out smoothly and efficiently.