Divorce, remarriage, or having children with more than one spouse are just a few of the things that complicate estate planning. Consider whether your family dynamics make it sensible to discussion your intentions with close relatives. (Read our related article on fairness in dividing family assets.) However, intentions alone are insufficient. It is essential to create a valid Will and/or a Trust.

To minimize the possibility of confusion among your chosen heirs, heed the following guidelines:

1. It almost always pays to have an estate lawyer prepare or review your Will. It is far too easy to make a mistake with a stationery store or computer-generated Will, resulting in huge costs and delays to your heirs.
2. Your Will must be properly witnessed to be valid. Your beneficiaries should not be witnesses. (In states where holographic or handwritten Wills are allowed, witnesses may not be required.)
3. Appoint a will executor to handle the distribution of your assets to your heirs and name substitutes should they be needed.
4. If you move to another state after your Will has been signed, it remains valid. Yet it would be wise to have a lawyer in your new home state review it to avoid potential probate glitches.
5. Ownership of some property goes by Beneficiary designation, not by Will. Make sure your Beneficiary designations are up-to-date.
6. Create a folder designated “Open in Case of Death”. Inside put contact information for your executor and lawyer, as well as the location of your Will. Also include important financial information—bank account numbers, insurance policies, and data about stocks, bonds, and retirement funds. Include copies of your most recent income tax returns and your burial preferences. Tell your family where this folder is kept.
7. Makes estate planning choices while you are still healthy.