It is possible to add a personal letter with your will in Florida when you do estate planning. The letter can provide additional guidance and express sentiments that are not part of the legal document.
Understanding how this letter is treated legally and practically is important for anyone planning their estate.
Purpose of a letter with a will
A letter with a will often serves to clarify the intentions of the person writing the will. This can include explanations for certain decisions, such as why specific assets went to particular beneficiaries. The letter can also convey personal messages, family history or expressions of love and appreciation. While the will itself distributes assets and addresses legal matters, the letter adds a personal touch.
Legal standing of a letter
In Florida, a letter attached to a will does not hold legal weight. The formal will remains the primary document governing the distribution of the estate. Florida law requires that a will be written, signed by the person making the will and witnessed by two individuals. This formal process ensures that the will is legally binding. However, a letter does not need to meet these requirements. It cannot alter the will’s legal directives.
Benefits of including a letter
Even though a letter is not legally binding, it can still be very beneficial. It can help family members understand the reasons behind specific bequests, which may reduce potential conflicts or confusion. For example, if one child receives a family heirloom while another does not, a letter explaining this decision can provide clarity and prevent misunderstandings.
Including a letter with a will in Florida can be a thoughtful addition, offering personal explanations and emotional messages that the legal document cannot convey.
