1. Identification Include identifying factors to ensure that yours is not confused with anyone else’s will. These should include your name, date of birth, address, and social security number. If you don’t have a social security number, provide a driver’s licence number or a state-issued ID. Name: John Smith Social Security number: 123-45-6789 Date of birth: March 1, 1975 Address: 123 Business Dr. 2. Declaration Clearly introduce this document as your last will and testament. Attest to your soundness of mind and include a provision nullifying all previous wills. Without this important clause, it could be argued that your will is not legally viable. I declare that this is my last will and testament. I hereby revoke, annul and cancel all wills and codicils previously made by me, either jointly or severally. I declare that I am of legal age to make this will, and that I am sound of mind. This last will expresses my wishes without undue influence or duress. 3. Family relations Identify your family members and their relationship to you. I am married to Hester Smith, hereafter referred to as my spouse. I have the following children: Bryan Smith (January 5, 2001), and Eloise Smith (May 1, 2003). 4. Executor This person will ensure that your will is followed. It is ideal to select an individual with a background in business or law. “I hereby nominate, constitute, and appoint Chase Clarkson as Executor.” 5. Distribution of assets Divide up your gifts and assets between family members and friends. There are two main types of assets you can choose to leave your loved ones: 1. A specific bequest normally comes first in the will. It refers to a specific item or asset to be given to a named person. “To my son, Bryan, a bequeath my grandfather clock. $1,000 shall be distributed to each of his children, Lucy and Clarke.” 1. A residuary bequest refers to what is left of your assets after the distribution of specific bequests. “The remainder of my estate shall be distributed in equal shares to XYZ charity.” 6. Special requests Include any stipulations for how your remains should be handled, where you should be buried, or how your funeral should be conducted. I direct that my body shall be cremated, and a memorial services shall be held at my home, 123 Business Dr.