Chapter 3: Wills—The Foundation of Your Plan

This is Chapter 3 of Estate Planning University. | ← Chapter 2 | Chapter 4 →

For most people, the will is the cornerstone of their estate plan. It's the document that specifies who gets what, who takes care of your children, and who is responsible for carrying out your wishes after you're gone.

This chapter covers everything you need to know about wills—from the basics of what they are and how they work, to the details of making yours legally valid, naming beneficiaries, and understanding how wills interact with probate.

📌 Start Here

What Is a Last Will & Testament?

The essential primer on wills: what they include, what they can and can't do, and what makes one legally valid. The right place to start if wills are new territory for you.

Core Reading

Will Preparation—Checklist for Making a Will

A step-by-step walkthrough of what you'll need to have ready before you sit down to create your will, including key decisions to make about beneficiaries, guardians, and executors.

What Is a Beneficiary? A Complete Guide

Beneficiaries are the people and organizations who inherit from you—and getting them right matters more than most people realize. This guide covers primary vs. contingent beneficiaries, common mistakes, and how to keep designations updated.

A Guide to Making Final Arrangements With Your Will

Beyond assets: this article covers how to document your wishes for your funeral, burial, and other final arrangements—and how to make sure those wishes are actually honored.

Go Deeper

What Happens When a Parent Dies Without a Will?

A practical look at what families face when a parent passes away intestate—including how assets are distributed, who makes decisions, and how the process compares to dying with a will in place.

Wills & Probate—5 Common Myths

Probate is one of the most misunderstood parts of the estate process. This article clears up five of the biggest misconceptions about what probate is, how long it takes, and whether it can be avoided.

Joint Will: What Is a Mutual Will?

Some couples choose a joint or mutual will instead of separate wills. This article explains how they work, their benefits and limitations, and whether they're the right choice for your situation.

Up Next

A will is essential—but it's not always enough. Next, we explore trusts: what they are, when they make sense, and how to set one up.

→ Continue to Chapter 4: Trusts—Adding Flexibility and Control