This guide covers adding assets to your Will-based Estate Plan. For information about adding assets to your Trust-based Estate Plan, please review our guide: Funding Your Trust: How to Transfer Assets to a Trust
What is considered an asset?
In the context of a will, an "asset" refers to any form of property or item of value that you own and can be passed on to heirs or beneficiaries after your death. For example:
- Real estate: Residential, commercial, land, or other properties
- Financial accounts: Checking, savings, or other accounts
- Life insurance: Term, whole, universal, group, or other policies
- Business interests: LLC, corporate stock, or other business interests
- Vehicles, boats, or RVs
- Other types of assets: Heirlooms, jewelry, artwork, or other tangible or intangible items of value
Learn more about what assets you should (and shouldn't) include in your Will on our blog: What to Include in a Will: Property, Assets & More
Do I need to list all of my assets in my Will?
Your asset information isn't legally required to be included in the Last Will or Pour Over Will because the Will covers everything in your probate estate, including your assets. So, it isn't necessary to list every asset covered by your Will.
However, gathering a list of assets for your Will is a great first step in preparing to create your Will-Based Estate Plan. Knowing what you have can help you make your decisions while creating your Estate Plan while ensuring you don’t inadvertently miss anything.
Why is my asset information not added to my printed Will?
Since your asset information isn't legally required to be included in your legal documents they aren't listed directly on your Last Will & Testament document unless you've left the specific asset as a gift to someone.
However, we've made it easy to download and share digitally any assets you add to your Estate Plan with your Executor via your account. Keeping your asset information in a separate file makes it easier for your Executor to manage and distribute your Estate. This is because all of your asset information will be clearly listed within its own file.
- To view and download your asset list, please use our guide: How to Download Asset Information
- To share your asset list digitally: How to Share Your Documents Digitally
How to Add Assets to Your Will-Based Estate Plan
It is optional to list assets in your Will, but you will be asked if you want to list assets while answering the questions to set up your Estate Plan. You can add or edit assets by:
- Clicking the Summary tab in your Estate Plan.
- Scrolling down to the 'Assets' section.
- Clicking Edit in the top right corner of the section.