Will Preparation Checklist
Learn what to gather, decide, and document as you prepare your Will and how to stay organized and confident throughout the process
Before you write your Will, taking time to get organized can make the process faster, easier, and more accurate. Whether you're working with a lawyer or using a Will kit, starting with a clear checklist helps ensure nothing important is overlooked.
Here’s a simple, actionable guide to walk you through what to prepare—so your final Will reflects your full life and legacy.
Key Decisions to Make Before Writing Your Will
The first step in preparing a Will isn’t legal—it’s personal. These decisions help shape the content and structure of your Will:
| Decision Area | What to Think About |
|---|---|
| Beneficiaries | Who should inherit your assets, and in what proportions? |
| Specific gifts | Are there personal items or donations you want to leave to someone? |
| Executor | Who do you trust to manage your estate and carry out your instructions? |
| Guardianship (if applicable) | Who should care for your minor children or dependants? |
| Contingency plans | What happens if your first choices are no longer available? |
Tip: Write out your wishes in plain language before drafting legal text. This helps you stay focused on what matters most—clarity, care, and intention.
Documents and Information to Gather in Advance
Having your financial and legal information ready will save time and reduce the risk of errors or omissions. Here’s what to collect:
| Category | What to Gather |
|---|---|
| Assets | Property deeds, bank statements, investment accounts, digital assets |
| Liabilities | Mortgage information, credit card balances, business loans |
| Insurance policies | Life, health, or critical illness policies (include beneficiary info) |
| ID and legal documents | Your Social Insurance Number, marriage certificate, existing Wills or codicils |
| Contact info | Names, addresses, and relationships of executors, guardians, and beneficiaries |
Keep this material in a folder or digital file that’s easy to update. It’s useful not just for writing your Will, but for general estate and financial planning.
Turning Your Decisions into a Complete Will Plan
Once you’ve gathered your decisions and documents, you’re ready to structure your Will. This means:
-
Listing your chosen executor(s) and their backup
-
Naming beneficiaries and assigning gifts
-
Including guardianship instructions
-
Adding any personal requests (funeral wishes, charitable gifts)
-
Ensuring your Will is signed and witnessed correctly
Important: Every province has rules about who can witness your Will and how it must be signed. If this step is done incorrectly, your Will may not be considered valid.
How Optimize Helps You Prepare Effectively
At Optimize, we help make sure that your Will reflects your financial plan—not just your legal wishes. We assist you in thinking through your goals, organizing your information, and aligning your Will with your investments, tax planning, and long-term objectives.
We don’t prepare legal documents, but we help you show up ready for that conversation—whether with a lawyer, an online tool, or a trusted family member.
Why Good Preparation Brings Peace of Mind
Preparing your Will may take time—but it brings clarity, security, and confidence. You’re not just writing down legal instructions. You’re making decisions that speak for you when you no longer can.
The better prepared you are, the easier it will be to create a Will that is complete, valid, and deeply personal.