There are many Australians nowadays deciding to write their will online. For most people, this is a more convenient and cost-effective option that still ensures their loved ones receive their final wishes.
But before getting an online will yourself, it’s important to do the research.
In this article, we’re answering all the questions you might have about best online wills. We discuss whether or not it’s valid, how to ensure it’s legally sound, and some of the benefits and drawbacks of getting one.
Let’s dive in!
What Is an Online Will?
Let’s start by talking about what an online will is. Basically, this is a simple will that you can accomplish online. Most providers offer an easy process of creating your will that only takes a few minutes. On top of that, most online options are cheaper than going through a traditional law firm, making it a very attractive choice for those on a budget.
Are Online Wills Legally Valid in Australia?
While an online will is a fairly simple form, they are legally valid in Australia. You can easily get a valid will online that covers all the basics, like your funeral service, a small to-do list for the executor, and even special gifts that you want to give family and friends. Getting a legal will online is a very straightforward process, and when you have the right provider, you can rest assured that it will have all the requirements and qualifications of a legally sound will!
How Do I Create an Online Will?
As mentioned earlier, online will providers offer a very easy and convenient way to complete a will. The first step to creating your online will is finding the right provider. It’s important that your provider has expert lawyers in their team who can craft customised wills with clear instructions to follow after your passing. There are many websites where you can get your will online today, so take your time choosing the right option.
To make it easier to create your online will, here’s a quick breakdown of the different steps.
Find a Provider
Just like when you go through traditional lawyers, it’s important that you find the right provider when creating your online will. That way, you can rest assured that the legal will you choose will account for all your assets, from your bank accounts to specific gifts for loved ones. When you have a good legal will provider, you get the peace of mind of knowing your will is clear and has all your wishes.
Fill Out the Online Form
Once you’re on the provider’s website, creating your will is a very simple process. Most of the time, the website has step-by-step instructions on how to create a will on their website. Typically, this involves filling out an online form with all your basic information and what you want to do with your estate. After filling out all your information, simply submit the form and proceed to the next step.
Wait for Your Will
If you were able to put all the important and relevant information in the online form, then all that’s left to do is wait for your will. Some providers can create your will within minutes. However, it’s also pretty common to wait a day or two before they create your will, especially if you have a lot of special requests and clauses.
What Should I Include in My Online Will?
The reason you need to go through a provider when creating a will is because of all the factors and considerations to keep in mind when creating your will. To start, you’re going to have to name all your beneficiaries and list their full names and addresses. From there, you will list down all the assets you want to distribute and how you want them distributed.
If you have minor children, it’s also best to specify guardianship in your will. That way, your children will be safe if something happens to you.
There are many other things to include in your will, but one of the things you need to make sure of is there is your executor. Make sure that you trust your executor to execute your will as stated in the document and to stay neutral even if the will starts a family dispute.
How Do I Make Sure My Online Will Is Valid?
The best way to ensure the validity of your new will is to get your online wills from a reputable provider. It’s important that your provider is experienced and knowledgeable in the laws and requirements around creating wills in Australia. That way, you can rest assured that your wills and legal documents follow all the requirements and guidelines, making them legally binding.
Additionally, it won’t hurt to read up on local rules and regulations around creating a will. This makes it extremely easy to check your will and spot any anomalies that may not be legally valid.
How Do I Edit My Online Will?
One of the key benefits of an online will is that you can edit it whenever you want. Editing your online will is just as easy as creating it. This is another reason many people decide to go through online providers instead of traditional lawyers.
When Should I Get an Online Will?
It’s best to get an online will if you just need a document with the basic information and instructions after your passing. If you have a complex estate and a wide variety of special requests, it might be best to go to a legal office to create your will.
What Are the Downsides of an Online Will?
The biggest downside to an online will is that it isn’t as comprehensive as a traditional one. On top of that, most online services don’t include the additional attorney documents you might need along with your will. But if you’re looking to save time and reduce additional costs, online wills are a great option.
Conclusion – Should You Get an Online Will?
An online will is very convenient and easy to complete. While they may not be best for complex wills and estates,m they are great for those looking for a basic document that includes their final wishes.
