A Guide To Writing A Codicil To Your Will

If you are looking to make changes to your will, a codicil is the best way to go. A codicil is an amendment to an existing will and it is a much simpler and less expensive process than creating a new will. While creating a will is something you should do when you are in good health, a codicil allows you to make changes to your will after you become ill or are otherwise unable to make changes. In this article, we will discuss what a codicil is, why you may need one, and how to write a codicil to your will.

What is a Codicil?

A codicil is an amendment to your existing will. It is a legal document that allows you to make changes to your will without having to rewrite it. A codicil can be used to add, delete, or modify any provisions in your will. The changes must be consistent with the original will and must be signed and dated by the testator (the person making the will). A codicil must also be witnessed and notarized in order to be valid.

Why You May Need a Codicil

There are several reasons why you may need a codicil to your will. One reason is if you have had a major life change, such as getting married, having children, getting divorced, or moving to a new home. You may also need a codicil if you want to change the executor of your will, add or delete beneficiaries, or add new assets or gifts to your will. Additionally, a codicil can be used to change the language of your will, clarify an ambiguous clause, or revoke an earlier provision in the will.

How to Write a Codicil to Your Will

Writing a codicil to your will is not difficult, but it is important to make sure it is done correctly. The first step is to review the original will to make sure that the changes you want to make are consistent with the original will. Next, you will need to create the codicil. This should include the date, your name, the title of the codicil, and the language of the changes you are making. After the codicil is written, it must be signed and dated by you, as well as two witnesses. Finally, the codicil must be notarized by a notary public.

Sample Codicil to Will Forms

Sample Form 1: Revoking an Earlier Provision in a Will

This is a codicil to my will dated ___________. I hereby revoke the following provision in my will: ___________________. This codicil is dated ___________ and signed ___________.

Sample Form 2: Adding a Beneficiary

This is a codicil to my will dated ___________. I hereby add the following beneficiary to my will: ___________________. This codicil is dated ___________ and signed ___________.

Sample Form 3: Changing the Executor of a Will

This is a codicil to my will dated ___________. I hereby revoke the following provision in my will: ___________________. I hereby appoint ___________ as the new executor of my will. This codicil is dated ___________ and signed ___________.

Conclusion

A codicil to your will is a great way to make changes to your will without having to rewrite it. With a codicil, you can add, delete, or modify any provisions in your will. It is important to make sure that the changes you make are consistent with the original will and that you have the codicil signed and notarized. Writing a codicil to your will is not difficult, but it is important to make sure it is done correctly.

Tags:

• codicil to will forms
• writing a codicil to will
• creating a codicil to will
• amending a will with codicil
• codicil to will sample forms
• revoking a provision in a will
• adding a beneficiary to a will