A will is more than just a piece of paper - it is your last message to the future, a last will and testament that decides how your assets will be distributed after your death.
It gives you control over who gets what and ensures that your wishes are respected.
But what is the best way to draw up a will that is not only legally valid, but also clear and precise?
In this article, you will find out how you can make your last will and testament in a few simple steps.
Why is a will important?
Before we get into the details, let's briefly clarify why a will is so important in the first place. Without a will, the law decides the succession, and that doesn't always mean that your assets will be distributed according to your personal wishes. A will gives you the opportunity to leave individual instructions, remember certain people or arrange for certain things that are close to your heart.
Step by step to your will
1. think carefully about what you want to bequeath
First of all, you should be clear about what exactly you want to bequeath and to whom. This includes real estate, accounts, securities, but also personal items such as jewelry or works of art. Make a list of all these things so that you have an overview.
2. Decide on the right heirs
Once you know what you want to bequeath, the next step is to decide who should receive these things. Also think about possible replacement heirs if the people you have chosen are no longer alive at the time of your death.
3. Write your will at
Now it's time to get down to business: the will itself. In principle, you can write your will by hand or with the help of a notary. A handwritten will must be written and signed by hand from start to finish. For larger estates or more complex successions, however, it is advisable to draw up a will with a notary. This ensures legal clarity and avoids disputes after your death.
4. Keep it safe
Your will should be kept in a safe place where it can be found after your death. One option is to deposit it with a notary. This will ensure that it is not lost or accidentally damaged.
5. Check and update it regularly
A will is not a document that is created once and then never needs to be touched again. Life circumstances change and you should review your will regularly and update it if necessary. Marriage, divorce, the birth of children or the death of heirs are all events that may make it necessary to amend your will.
Have it translated now - at Beglaubigung24
If you would like to have your will translated, we recommend that you have it notarized. This will ensure that your assets are distributed in accordance with your wishes, even across national borders.Upload your will now and have it translated!
Wills abroad
In the world of inheritance law, there is a fascinating variety of rules and traditions that vary from country to country. Some countries have special or even unusual provisions regarding wills and succession. These rules often reflect the cultural, historical and social characteristics of each place. Here are some notable examples:
England and Wales: The "Treasure Trove"
In England and Wales, there is a centuries-old legal practice which states that a "Treasure Trove" belongs to the Crown Regent if there are no heirs. This rule may not be regularly applied today, but it underlines the historical importance of royal law and property.
Italy: Compulsory share
Italy has a very strict system of compulsory share ("legittima"), which guarantees close relatives (children, spouse) a fixed share of the estate, regardless of the last will of the deceased. This means that a testator does not have complete freedom to distribute their assets as they wish, as a certain portion of the estate is legally entitled to protected heirs.
Japan: The Koseki system
Japan has a unique family register system called "Koseki", which documents all the important life events of a citizen, including birth, marriage and death. This system plays an important role in inheritance matters, as it makes it easier to provide evidence of family relationships and therefore also plays a central role in the probate of wills and succession.
France: Real estate and the "bare ownership rule"
France has an interesting regulation regarding the inheritance of real estate. The so-called "usufruit" (usufruct) allows the surviving spouse to retain the use of the joint property for the duration of his or her life, while the children inherit the "bare property", i.e. the right to become the owner as soon as the usufructuary has died.
Saudi Arabia: Sharia
In Saudi Arabia and many other countries where Islamic Sharia plays a central role, inheritance matters are regulated strictly according to religious rules. These regulations stipulate exactly which part of the estate goes to which heirs, based on their relationship to the deceased and their gender.
These examples show how differently wills can be handled around the world. They illustrate the importance of familiarizing yourself with local laws and customs, especially when it comes to such important matters as the last will and testament.
Inheritance abroad
If you are planning to bequeath assets to heirs abroad, there are some important points to bear in mind. International inheritance law can be complex, as it involves not only the laws of your own country, but also those of the country where the heir lives. Here are some key aspects you should consider to ensure that your last will and testament is carried out the way you want it to be:
1. Know the laws
Familiarize yourself with the inheritance laws in both your own country and the country of the heir. Some countries have strict rules regarding compulsory shares due to certain close relatives, regardless of the instructions in the will. Other countries may not recognize certain types of wills or have specific documentation requirements.
2. International double taxation treaty
Find out about double taxation treaties between your country and the country of the heir. These agreements can prevent inheritances from being taxed in both countries. If no such agreement exists, the heir may have to pay taxes on the inheritance in both countries.
3. Currency risks and fees
Consider currency risks and possible fees for international transfers. Currency fluctuations can significantly affect the value of assets, and bank charges can reduce the amount the heir receives.
4. Draw up a will and have it translated
Make sure your will is clearly worded and clearly names the international heirs. It may be useful to have the will professionally translated into the language of the country in which the heir lives to avoid misunderstandings. This is where Beglaubigung24 can help you with professional translations and notarizations.
5. Seek professional advice
Consulting a lawyer or a specialist in international inheritance law is essential in such cases. A professional can help you navigate the complex legal requirements and create a plan to ensure that your assets pass to your international heirs according to your wishes.
6. Inheritance tax considerations
Check the inheritance tax laws in the country of the heir. The amount of inheritance tax and the allowances can vary greatly. A well-structured plan can help to minimize the tax burden for your heirs.
7. Real estate abroad
If you wish to bequeath real estate abroad, you should inform yourself particularly thoroughly about the local laws. Some countries have restrictions or special procedures for non-residents inheriting property.
By planning carefully and seeking professional advice, you can ensure that your assets are inherited internationally in the way you wish and that your heirs are protected from unnecessary legal or financial burdens.
