Preparing Your Letter of Wishes

If you are preparing your Will, your solicitor may have suggested the option to prepare a “Letter of Wishes” or “Statement of Wishes”.  A Letter of Wishes can provide guidance and direction to your executors and the guardians of your young children. It is not part of the Will and is not a “legal” document, but it can be a helpful resource for your family.

 Every Letter is unique, like every family. As the Letter writer, you have control over the detail and content of the Letter. Solicitors can provide some direction on matters you may wish to discuss, but you always have the option to keep the Letter private from us.

 Information we commonly see included in Letters of Wishes include:

 The contact details for your solicitor, accountant and other advisors;

  1. A list of your bank accounts and location of important documents;
  2. A list of the Property you own including real estate, shares, superannuation and personal property;
  3. Your hopes, dreams and intentions for raising your children;
  4. Any special funeral arrangements to consider;
  5. Other matters you would like your Executors to know but which aren’t included in your Will (but not gifting your Estate).
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