Will

A will is a written document that says who gets your money and property after you die. You sign it and two witnesses attest it. It works alongside your nominees: they collect the money, and the will decides who keeps it.

What makes it valid

A will does not need a lawyer, a stamp or fancy language to be valid. Under section 63 of the Indian Succession Act, you sign the document (or make your mark), and at least two witnesses attest it, each having seen you sign and each signing in your presence. Keep it clear and specific: list your assets, say who gets each, and avoid vague wording that invites a dispute. You can change it any time by writing a new one.

Will versus nominee

This is the distinction people most often get wrong. A nominee is only a receiver: the bank, fund or insurer hands the money to the nominee quickly, but the nominee holds it for whoever the will, or succession law, says truly inherits. The will is what actually decides ownership. So a nominee is not a substitute for a will; you want both.

Executor and registration

Name an executor to carry out the will, someone organised you trust. Registration is optional: a properly signed and witnessed will is valid without it, though registering can make it easier to prove. Our lesson on writing a will walks through the steps; see also will registration.