One of the most considerate and loving acts you can do is to leave a Will. This ensures that your loved ones are guided and empowered to carry out your wishes at a very difficult time. A challenge that is often overlooked is where to leave a will and how to keep it safe.
Legal experts continue to inform Australians that outdated or missing Wills can leave families facing long delays, unexpected legal costs and unintended outcomes. Many Australians only discover this after a dispute arises, which is why lawyers encourage people of all ages to create or update a valid Will.
Choosing a Safe Storage Location
Because of its importance, your Will should be stored somewhere secure and easy to access. Rather than placing it in a drawer or under the bed, consider:
- A personal safe – provided your executor knows how to access it.
- Your solicitor or accountant – many offer secure document storage.
- A bank safety deposit box – if available in your area.
Helping Loved Ones Find It
Even the safest location won’t help if no one knows where the Will is. A few simple steps can prevent confusion later:
- Tell your executor and any trusted family members where it’s stored.
- Keep a copy with your important papers. While only the original is legally valid, a copy can help demonstrate your intentions if the original is lost, especially in natural disasters.
- Review regularly – every year or after major life changes – to ensure your Will still reflects your wishes.
Taking these steps can make things far easier for your executor and your loved ones.
If you’re exploring your options for the future or considering a gift to NBCF in your Will, you’re welcome to reach out for a confidential conversation with our Gifts in Wills Manager, Diana Morison, on (02) 8098 4848 or at bequests@nbcf.org.au.
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