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The LegalShield Will Questionnaire form is a comprehensive tool designed to help individuals and married couples articulate their estate planning wishes clearly and effectively. By documenting everything owned at the time of passing—after debts and taxes are settled—this form allows users to specify the shares of their estate intended for heirs. Throughout the questionnaire, a variety of important topics are covered, including the naming of guardians for minor children, the selection of a personal representative or executor, and considerations for special needs beneficiaries. Each section requests crucial personal information such as details about property ownership, marital status, and the identities of children and grandchildren. Notably, filling out this form carefully will aid your chosen law firm in crafting a will that genuinely reflects your intentions. While the Will Questionnaire itself is not a legally binding document, it serves as a vital foundation for preparing your Last Will and Testament. Its thoughtful design ensures that no detail is overlooked, promoting peace of mind for all LegalShield members once their wills are finalized by a qualified attorney. Completing this form necessitates an understanding of your assets and family dynamics, which can be addressed with the assistance of legal professionals through LegalShield.
Legalshield Will Questionnaire Example
Your Will Questionnaire
p 1 of 6 • Will Questionnaire
Please print
estate
Everything that you own at your passing after payment of debts and taxes. You will make decisions regarding the percentage share of your estate that you wish to give to your beneficiaries. And if you wish, you may leave specific items of property (car, investments, heirlooms, etc.) or sums of money to your beneficiaries.
will
A document which provides who is to receive your property, who will administer your estate, who will serve as guardian of your children, if applicable, and other provisions.
peace of mind
The wonderful feeling you get as a LegalShield member after having your Will prepared by a qualified law firm at a reasonable price.
For Your
Information
MEMBER AND SPOUSE FILLING OUT A SEPARATE FORM
In order to meet each person’s unique needs, you must each fill out a Will Questionnaire.
Get Started!
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What You’ll Need to Complete This Questionnaire:
•Copy of your Prenuptial Agreement (if applicable).
•Names and birth dates of your children and grandchildren (if applicable).
•The name and contact information of the person you’ve chosen to be guardian of your child(ren), the trustee(s) of their estate, and your personal representative/executor.
•To best serve you in completing your Will for estate tax purposes, you’ll be asked to provide the approximate dollar amount of such items as: your home, other real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, retirement plans, life insurance policies, and debts such as mortgages, loans, medical or others over $5,000.
Helpful Information before You Get Started!
•This Will Questionnaire is NOT your Will. It will help your Provider Law Firm prepare your Will. All questions applicable to you MUST be completed in their entirety in order to have your Will prepared.
•If you need more space to answer a question, attach a separate sheet and indicate the question number to which it pertains.
•If you have questions while filling out this form, don’t hesitate to call your Provider Law Firm at the number on your membership card.
•If you need the number to your firm, call Member Services at
1)Full name (first, middle, last):
All other names by which you have been known:
Membership Number:
Age: |
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Date of Birth (DOB): |
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Are you a US citizen?* |
Y |
N If no, country of citizenship: |
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2) Current residence |
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Home Phone: |
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3) If you are married, your spouse’s full name (first, middle, last, maiden):
DOB: |
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Date of marriage: |
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Place of marriage: |
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Are you currently living with your present spouse? |
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N |
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4)Do you and your spouse have a Prenuptial Agreement which identifies and disposes
of separate spousal property? |
Y |
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N/A |
If yes, attach copy with any filing data.
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5)If either you or your spouse has been divorced, please answer the following. If not applicable, please go to question #6.
Date of marriage:
Date of divorce judgment: Court rendering judgment:
Date of spouse’s death (if applicable):
6)Have you or your spouse created any trusts or made gifts through trusts to others? If yes, describe and include a copy. If not applicable, go to question #7.
7)Do you or your spouse expect any inheritance? If yes, state from whom and how much. If not applicable, please go to question #8.
8)If you have children, including adopted children, state the following for each child. If you do not have children, please go to question #15.
Will Questionnaire • p 2 of 6
For Your
Information
A great deal of personal information is requested in your Will Questionnaire. Without all of the information requested, your Provider Law Firm can’t ensure your wishes will occur or that the most comprehensive estate planning options have been advised. All information you provide them will remain strictly confidential.
Full Name
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Son/Daughter
Date of Birth
Child of Current Marriage? (Y/N)
9) a. Deceased biological or legally adopted children if applicable.
Full Name |
Son/Daughter |
Date of Death |
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b. Deceased child’s living children if applicable:
Full Name |
Son/Daughter |
Date of Birth |
Parent’s Name |
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10) If you have stepchildren, do you want them treated the same as your natural born
or legally adopted children in your Will? 
Y 
N 
N/A If yes, state the following for each:
Full Name |
Male/Female |
Date of Birth |
Parent’s Name |
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11)If you have grandchildren, state the following for each. If not, go to question #12.
Full Name |
Parent’s Name |
Grandson / |
DOB |
Living? |
Granddaughter |
(Y/N) |
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Dear LegalShield,
I’m writing to thank you for your firm’s excellent preparation of my Last Will and Testament. [My lawyer] has been very professional, knowledgeable, and responsive to my calls and questions. Due to his excellent service, I am pleased to continue using LegalShield and to recommend it to friends, family, and business associates.
Sincerely,
Florida Member
p 3 of 6 • Will Questionnaire
guardian
A person lawfully invested with the power, and charged with the duty, of taking care of the person who is incapable of doing so because of age or other incapacity. Certain states do not allow anyone other than a biological parent to be appointed as guardian of minor children in the event of one parent’s death. Please call your Provider Law Firm for instructions for your state.
NOTE: Louisiana residents, although the provision in a Will providing for a guardian of minor children is not binding in your state, it is highly persuasive in a proceeding for the appointment of a guardian and should be included in the Will of any person with minor children.
trustee
A person appointed to manage the financial affairs of the one who is legally incapable of doing so because of age or other incapacity.
joint tenants with right of survivorship
A single property owned by two or more persons, under one title, with equal rights to the property.
At the death of one joint tenant, the property transfers to the surviving tenant.
Halfway Point
12) Are any of your children or other beneficiaries mentally or physically disabled or
have special needs? |
Y |
N |
If so, note any special provisions:
If so, are they presently receiving, or do you anticipate that they may apply for, SSI
benefits in the future? |
Y |
N |
Note: If you leave a bequest, not left to a qualified trust, the recipient might be disqualified from SSI benefits.
13)If your children are under age eighteen (18), state the following for the person you wish to act as their guardian (custodian) in the event of your death or in case of the joint death of you and your spouse (if married). You should obtain the consent of that person(s) before executing your will.
If you do not have any minor children, please go to question #15. Name(s):
Address:
Relationship:
If at the time of your death the person(s) named above is/are unwilling to serve as guardian (custodian), please list an alternate:
Name(s):
Address:
Relationship:
14)Do you want the appointed guardian also to be the trustee (conservator) of any
assets inherited by the minor children? |
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N |
At what age would you like your children to take control from the trustee of any
inherited assets? (Must be at least 18 years old.) |
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If no, please list the person or entity you wish to act as their financial custodian. You should obtain the consent of that person or entity before executing your Will.
Name:
Address:
Relationship:
Please list an alternate in case this person is unwilling or unable to serve:
Name(s):
Address:
Relationship:
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15) Indicate how you want your assets to pass when you die.
Please check the ONE option you prefer:
OPTION A
I want my assets to pass to my spouse and children as follows:
•To my spouse, if surviving.
•If my spouse predeceases me, my assets will be divided in equal shares to my children.
•If any of my children predecease me, that child’s share shall be distributed to his or her children in equal shares.
•In the event my spouse and all of my children and descendents fail to survive me, I want my assets to be distributed as follows:
OPTION B
I am unmarried with children and want my assets to pass as follows:
•In equal shares to my children.
•If one or more of my children predeceases me, that child’s share in my estate is distributed to his or her children in equal shares.
•In the event all my children and descendents fail to survive me, I want my assets to be distributed as follows:
OPTION C
None of the above. I want my assets to pass as follows:
Will Questionnaire • p 4 of 6
For Your
Information
If you own property jointly with another person as “joint tenants with right
of survivorship,” your interest in that property will pass to the survivor upon your death. It will not pass according to the terms of your Will. If you own property jointly with another person without right of survivorship, your interest in that property will pass according to the provisions in your Will.
NOTE: Idaho and Louisiana residents, contact your Provider Law Firm for information particular to your state.
BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS
You should know that decisions you have already made regarding title to property will determine distribution of that property in the future. Will provisions cannot alter those decisions. A beneficiary designation is a binding contractual obligation and a Will provision will not alter that designation.
Beneficiary designations in life insurance policies, retirement plans, annuities, bank accounts with a named “Due on Death” (DOD) beneficiary, etc., will determine who receives those moneys upon your death, not your Will.
MORTGAGED PROPERTY
•If you leave to a named beneficiary real/immovable property which is mortgaged, that property will generally pass under your Will to the beneficiary subject to the debt secured by the mortgage.
•If you wish to leave the property free and clear of the mortgage debt, you must include a provision in your Will directing the debt to be paid from the other assets of your estate, provided sufficient assets are available.
NOTE: Louisiana residents, contact your Provider Law Firm for information particular to your state.
p 5 of 6 • Will Questionnaire
health care power of attorney
A legal document appointing a person the authority to make health care decisions on another person’s behalf.
physicians directive
(also living will)
A legal document containing instructions for physicians regarding your
executor
(also personal representative)
The person appointed in a Will by the testator (person making the Will) to carry out the terms of the Will.
fiduciary bond
A type of surety bond required by the court to be filed by executors, guardians, etc., to ensure proper performance of their duties as an executor. Typically waived, especially when a spouse or family member is appointed executor.
For Your
Information
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
Rather than including your funeral wishes in your Will, which often isn’t read until after your funeral, it’s best to make your wishes known to loved ones in writing prior to your death.
Almost Done!
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16)Do you wish to disinherit any children or grandchildren? If so list their names here. If not applicable, please go to question #17.
NOTE: In certain states it is not possible to completely disinherit a spouse or minor child. Please contact your Provider Law Firm for more information.
17)Execution of a Will is the best way to determine how your property will be distributed. However, it cannot address important issues regarding health care decisions. Your Provider Law Firm will prepare a Health Care Power of Attorney and Physician’s Directive* at no additional charge if prepared with your Will.
* In Alabama, an Advance Directive for Health Care
Who would you like to serve as your representative responsible for making sure your health care wishes are carried out?
Full name: Address: Phone number:
Please list an alternate in case this person is unwilling or unable to serve: Full name:
Address: Phone number:
Please indicate your wishes by checking one box below:
I want this person to be able to act on my behalf immediately.
I want this person to be able to act on my behalf only upon certification by a doctor that I am no longer able to make decisions and act for myself.
18) If married and your spouse is still alive, do you want your spouse to serve as your
personal representative/executor*? |
Y |
N |
* Louisiana & Missouri residents, see back cover.
Please list an alternate below. If not married or you wish to appoint someone other than your spouse, please indicate below.
NOTE: If you wish to name a
Full name:
Address:
Please list an alternate in case this person is unwilling or unable to serve: Full name:
Address:
Do you wish to waive the fiduciary bond requirement? |
Y |
N |
19)Many people make special provisions for family heirlooms, jewelry, or other items of special value to be distributed to friends or relatives. If you have such property and would like to leave it to a specific person, please complete the following.
NOTE: In question #15 you indicated how you would like your assets to pass. Please fill out question #19 ONLY if you desire items with specific or sentimental value be left to a specific person. (Include a separate sheet of paper if necessary.)
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Special Identifying Features |
Recipient |
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20)List the estimated value of your assets as of today’s date. Include the dollar amount in the appropriate column(s).
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V A L U E |
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A S S E T S |
Individual |
Spouse’s |
Joint/Community |
Joint Assets/ |
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Separate |
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Assets |
Assets |
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a.Home
b.Other real estate*
c.Checking, savings, or credit union accounts & certificates 1.
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d.Automobiles & Other Vehicles
e.Stocks, Mutual funds & other investments
f.Interest in a business
g.Qualified retirement plans (e.g. 401k plan)
h.Life Insurance Policies
i.Miscellaneous
T O T A L S
*Indicate whether in state or out of state.
21)List your estimated debt in each category as applicable. Include the dollar amount in the appropriate column(s).
D E B T S |
Individual |
Spouse’s |
Joint/Community |
Joint Debts/ |
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Separate |
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Debts |
Debts |
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Debts |
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a.Mortgages on home, car, etc.
b.Signature Loan at Bank
c.Medical or other expenses
d.Other debts over $5,000
T O T A L S
Confirmation of Information and Instructions:
I confirm the information provided by me in this form is complete and accurate and that the instructions I have provided reflect my wishes.
Signature:
Print name:
Date: |
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Phone number: |
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IN CASE OF QUESTIONS
Will Questionnaire • p 6 of 6
For Your
Information
FEDERAL ESTATE TAXES
Your taxable estate may include all life insurance on your life and all joint tenancy property. Tax laws are constantly changing. If your taxable estate is larger than $1,000,000 you should consult with your Provider Law Firm regarding advanced tax planning tools available at a discounted rate.
STATE INHERITANCE TAXES
Your estate could be subject to state inheritance tax even if it isn’t subject to federal taxation. Please ask your Provider Law Firm for further clarification.
probate
The judicial determination of the validity of a Will.
PROBATE
Many people think that if their loved one had a Will prepared, they will be able to avoid the probate process. This is not necessarily the case. Please ask your Provider Law Firm for details about your state.
You have now completed your Will Questionnaire! Please see instructions on the next page for final steps on how to get your Will prepared.
Your LegalShield Plan Will Questionnaire
TO HAVE YOUR WILL PREPARED:
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After completing the Will Questionnaire, mail it to your Provider Law Firm. |
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If you need to include additional information to this questionnaire, please include |
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a separate sheet of paper. Your membership guide contains a preaddressed |
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envelope for mailing your questionnaire to your Provider Law Firm. If you need your |
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Provider Law Firm’s address, please call their number which you can find in your |
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electronic membership kit, via the LegalShield mobile app, or by calling Member |
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Services |
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you send in. |
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They will prepare your Last Will & Testament based on the confidential information |
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you provide in your Will Questionnaire. If they need additional information from you |
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while completing your Will, they’ll call you. |
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Your Provider Law Firm should mail you your completed Will within ten (10) business days of when they receive your completed Will Questionnaire.
You’ll also receive instructions from your Provider Law Firm on how to have your Will finalized.
Safeguard your Will and make a copy for your executor.
Store your Will in a safe place with other important legal documents. Please remember that
*Louisiana & Missouri Residents: Under law, the Personal Representative serves with Court supervision. Certain actions can be taken by your Personal Representative only after obtaining Court approval, including the sale or transfer of any real estate which is part of your estate. However, you can waive certain Court supervision by electing “Independent Administration” of your estate. By electing “Independent Administration” the expenses associated with probate administration may be lessened. However, because there is less Court supervision, there is a greater chance of dishonesty by the Personal Representative and they must secure the service of an attorney on legal questions arising in connection with the administration of the estate.
Do you wish to elect “Independent Administration” for your estate? |
Y |
N |
Contracts issued by:
In FL: LS, Inc.
In VA: Legal Service Plans of Virginia, Inc.
Toll Free: 800.654.7757
willquest 8.17 51770 © 2017 LegalShield
File Breakdown
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose of the Will Questionnaire | The Will Questionnaire is designed to gather information needed to create a valid and comprehensive will for individuals. |
| Confidentiality | All information provided in the Will Questionnaire remains strictly confidential, ensuring privacy for the individual. |
| Completion Requirements | All applicable questions must be answered in full for the law firm to prepare the will effectively. |
| Non-Citizen Considerations | For non-U.S. citizens, estate taxation may differ from that of U.S. citizens, affecting the will preparation process. |
| State-Specific Laws | Specific regulations and requirements can vary based on state laws, which may influence certain provisions in the will. |
| Provision for Guardianship | The Questionnaire allows for the nomination of guardians for minor children, addressing important family dynamics. |
| Separate Forms for Spouses | Each spouse must complete a separate Will Questionnaire to address individual estate planning needs and preferences. |
| Beneficiary Designations | Designations made on beneficiaries for assets like life insurance or bank accounts take precedence over will provisions. |
| Trust Information | The Questionnaire asks for details regarding any existing trusts or gifts made through trusts to provide comprehensive planning. |
| Real Estate Provisions | If real estate is transferred to a beneficiary, it typically passes with any existing mortgage, impacting the inheritance's value. |
Guide to Using Legalshield Will Questionnaire
Getting ready to fill out the LegalShield Will Questionnaire is an easy process that can significantly help in creating your will. Gather your information beforehand to ensure a smooth experience. Follow these steps to complete the form accurately and efficiently.
- Gather Necessary Information: Before starting, collect all relevant documents, such as your prenuptial agreement, if applicable. Have details ready, including names and birthdates of children and grandchildren, plus the name and contact information of the guardian for minor children, your personal representative, and any trustees.
- Start With Personal Details: Fill in your full name, any other names you've been known by, your membership number, age, date of birth, sex, and US citizenship status.
- Provide Contact Information: Enter your current residential address, including street, city, county, state, and zip code. Don’t forget to include your home and work phone numbers.
- Complete Spousal Information: If you are married, provide your spouse's full name, date of birth, date of marriage, and where the marriage took place. Indicate whether you are currently living together.
- Address Prenuptial Agreement: Answer the question regarding whether you and your spouse have a prenuptial agreement. If yes, be sure to attach a copy.
- Fill Out Divorce Information: If applicable, provide details of any divorces for you or your spouse, including dates and the court that rendered the judgment.
- Document Trusts: State whether you or your spouse have created any trusts or made gifts through trusts to others. If so, provide details and attach any copies.
- Inheritance Expectations: Let them know if you or your spouse expect any inheritance. State the details regarding who it is expected from and the approximate amount, if applicable.
- Children Information: If you have children, list their names, dates of birth, and whether they are children of your current marriage.
- Detail Deceased Children: If you have any deceased biological or legally adopted children, provide their names and dates of death, as well as information about any living children of deceased children.
- Include Stepchildren: If you have stepchildren, indicate whether you want them treated the same as your biological or legally adopted children, and provide their information if applicable.
- List Grandchildren: If you have grandchildren, include their names, dates of birth, and whether they are living.
- Guardian Information: State who you wish to act as guardian for your children if you pass away. This falls under the section for minor children, so be sure to obtain consent from that person.
- Trustee Designation: Decide if the appointed guardian should also serve as trustee for any assets inherited by minor children, and specify at what age you'd like your children to take control of those assets.
- Asset Distribution Preferences: Finally, indicate how you want your assets to pass after your death by selecting your preferred option (A, B, or C) and providing any necessary details.
Once you have filled out the LegalShield Will Questionnaire, review your answers to ensure everything is accurate and complete. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your Provider Law Firm. After this step, your will will be prepared according to the details you provided, giving you peace of mind for the future.
Get Answers on Legalshield Will Questionnaire
What is the purpose of the LegalShield Will Questionnaire form?
The LegalShield Will Questionnaire form serves as a comprehensive tool for gathering essential information needed to prepare a valid Last Will and Testament. It prompts individuals to detail their estate, including properties, debts, and personal possessions, ensuring that decisions regarding the distribution of assets and the appointment of guardians or representatives are clearly articulated. By thoughtfully completing this questionnaire, individuals can ensure that their wishes are accurately reflected in their final legal documents.
Why do both spouses need to fill out separate forms?
Each spouse occupies a unique position regarding their assets and wishes for estate distribution. By requiring both individuals to complete separate forms, the LegalShield system acknowledges the distinct needs and circumstances of each partner. This approach not only facilitates a clearer understanding of each party's desires but also helps capture the complexities of joint and separate property ownership. Consequently, this thoroughness can lead to more personalized and effective estate planning.
What happens if I miss a question or need to provide more information?
If a question in the Will Questionnaire is left unanswered or requires additional context, individuals are encouraged to attach a separate sheet detailing their responses. Clearly referencing the question number ensures that the law firm can seamlessly integrate this information into the estate planning process. It is essential not to overlook any question, as incomplete answers may hinder the development of a comprehensive and effective will.
How should I approach listing my assets and beneficiaries?
Common mistakes
Filling out the LegalShield Will Questionnaire form is an important step in planning your estate. However, there are common mistakes that can lead to confusion or incomplete information. Understanding these pitfalls can help you navigate the process smoothly.
One frequent mistake occurs when individuals leave out essential personal information. Not providing your full name, previous names, and contact details can hinder the preparation of your will. This information is crucial for your Provider Law Firm to identify you correctly and ensure that they are drafting the right document according to your wishes.
Many people also neglect to include the necessary details about their beneficiaries. Failing to list the names and birth dates of your children or grandchildren can complicate matters later on. Without proper identification of your beneficiaries, the law firm cannot accurately distribute your assets according to your preferences.
Another common error is not disclosing all previous marriages or divorces. It's vital to provide accurate dates and details. Missing this information can lead to invalid assumptions about your current marital status or the distribution of assets related to previous spouses.
A lack of clarity regarding prenuptial agreements also presents a challenge. If you have a prenuptial agreement, it’s important to indicate this on the form. Omitting this detail can create legal complications and impact how your estate is handled, especially concerning separate property provisions.
Some individuals overlook the importance of identifying a guardian if they have minor children. Not specifying who you want as the guardian can leave your children's care in uncertain hands and put extra pressure on your loved ones during a difficult time.
It's also important to address special circumstances such as stepchildren or beneficiaries with special needs. Failing to note these details may lead to unintended exclusions or complications in your will's execution. Ensure that every aspect of your family dynamic is considered to avoid future disputes.
Finally, the last mistake many make involves the asset distribution options. Not clearly checking the one applicable option or leaving it blank can result in ambiguity about your final wishes. This step is vital in ensuring your assets are distributed according to your intentions.
By being mindful of these common mistakes when filling out the LegalShield Will Questionnaire form, you can set yourself up for success in creating a will that reflects your wishes and provides peace of mind for your loved ones.
Documents used along the form
When preparing a will, several other documents may also be necessary to ensure comprehensive estate planning. Below is a list of forms that accompany the LegalShield Will Questionnaire form, each serving a different purpose in the estate planning process.
- Living Will: This document outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment in cases where you might be unable to communicate those wishes yourself, such as in a terminal illness or severe injury.
- Durable Power of Attorney: This form allows you to designate someone to manage your financial and legal affairs in the event that you become incapacitated.
- Healthcare Proxy: Similar to a living will, this document appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
- Trust Document: If you set up a trust, this document identifies the trust’s terms, the trustee, and the beneficiaries who will receive the assets held in the trust.
- Beneficiary Designation Forms: Specialized forms for accounts such as life insurance and retirement plans that indicate who will receive the funds upon your death, superseding the terms of your will.
- Prenuptial Agreement: If applicable, this legal contract outlines the division of assets in case of divorce and can be crucial in determining asset distribution in a will.
- List of Assets: A detailed inventory of your assets can help your executor understand the extent of your estate and assist in its administration.
- Death Certificate: Required for financial transactions and the transfer of property following death, the death certificate serves as legal proof of death for beneficiaries and executors.
Having these documents in order can help facilitate a smoother estate planning process, making it easier for loved ones to navigate their responsibilities and your wishes after your passing. Proper preparation ensures that all facets of your estate are managed according to your desires, offering peace of mind for both you and your family.
Similar forms
- Living Will: Similar to the Will Questionnaire, this document outlines specific healthcare wishes in the event that an individual cannot communicate their desires due to illness or incapacity. It requires detailed personal information and preferences much like the Will Questionnaire.
- Power of Attorney: This document allows you to designate someone to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf. Both documents require information about your personal situation and the individuals you trust.
- Trust Establishment Documents: These include forms that create a trust to manage your assets for your beneficiaries. Like the Will Questionnaire, they gather extensive information about your assets and intended beneficiaries.
- Advance Healthcare Directive: This document combines a Living Will and Power of Attorney for healthcare decisions. It asks for similar personal information and intentions regarding medical care, just as the Will Questionnaire does for estate distribution.
- Financial Disclosure Form: Used mainly in divorce proceedings, this form details an individual's financial situation. It, too, collects detailed personal and financial information, akin to the Will Questionnaire.
- Estate Inventory Form: Similar to the Will Questionnaire, this form lists all assets and debts of an estate, helping to outline one's intent regarding distributions and beneficiary designations.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the LegalShield Will Questionnaire form, there are important things to do and avoid to ensure a smooth process.
- Do provide accurate and complete information.
- Do attach any necessary documents, such as a prenuptial agreement, if applicable.
- Do have a clear understanding of your estate, including assets and debts.
- Do list the names and birth dates of all beneficiaries, including children and stepchildren.
- Do indicate if there are any specific guardians you wish to name for your children.
- Do indicate special provisions if a beneficiary has special needs.
- Don't leave any questions unanswered; all sections must be completed.
- Don't attempt to submit the form without double-checking for errors.
- Don't forget to ask for assistance if you have questions during the process.
- Don't assume that an incomplete form will be acceptable; all details are necessary for proper estate planning.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your wishes are respected and that the process is as seamless as possible.
Misconceptions
Here are six common misconceptions about the LegalShield Will Questionnaire form, along with clarifications for each.
- Misconception 1: The Will Questionnaire is a legally binding Will.
- Misconception 2: Only one spouse needs to complete the form if they have a joint estate.
- Misconception 3: Providing personal information is optional.
- Misconception 4: The form is only for those with large estates.
- Misconception 5: The information shared is not confidential.
- Misconception 6: Once the form is submitted, you cannot make changes.
This form is not a Will. It serves as a tool for your Provider Law Firm to gather necessary information in order to draft your actual Will.
Each spouse must fill out a separate Will Questionnaire to address individual needs and preferences regarding their estate.
Your Will Questionnaire must be completed in full. Incomplete responses can hinder the law firm's ability to create a Will that reflects your wishes.
Everyone can benefit from filling out the Will Questionnaire, regardless of estate size. It helps ensure that your wishes are honored.
All information provided in the questionnaire remains strictly confidential. The law firm will only use it to prepare your Will.
Should your circumstances change, you can always update or adjust the information provided before your Will is finalized.
Key takeaways
1. Understand the Purpose: The LegalShield Will Questionnaire is primarily a tool to assist a law firm in preparing your Will. It is not the final Will itself.
2. Complete All Sections: It is crucial to fill out every applicable section of the questionnaire completely. Insufficient information can hinder the preparation of your Will.
3. Individual Forms Required: Each individual member and their spouse should fill out separate questionnaires to address their unique estate planning needs.
4. Confidentiality is Key: Rest assured that all the information you provide is confidential. The law firm will keep your personal details secure.
5. Prepare Necessary Documentation: Gather necessary documents, such as your prenuptial agreement and personal identification details, along with any information about your beneficiaries before starting the questionnaire.
6. Call for Clarifications: If you encounter any uncertainties while completing the form, do not hesitate to contact your Provider Law Firm for assistance.
7. Be Aware of Inheritance Implications: If you included beneficiaries who may receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, special care must be taken to avoid jeopardizing their eligibility.
8. Review Real Estate Considerations: If you own property, understand how mortgages affect the transfer of assets. Properties may pass subject to their debts unless specifically directed otherwise in your Will.