You can obtain your Maryland will form by clicking “Get Started” above. Before you begin the process, take a moment to assess what information you will need to compile to complete it.

Take some time to consider your assets. Make a list of everything you own. Whether it’s personal property, real estate, a bank account, life insurance, or retirement savings, jot down the entirety of your property. Here are a few items worth noting:

• All real estate, including your home and any vacation property
• Automobiles
• Checking and saving accounts
• Expensive personal property such as antiques or jewelry
• Items of significance such as family heirlooms

Note that not all assets can or should go through the probate process. These assets, such as life insurance and retirement savings, are considered non-probate property. They will be paid to beneficiaries that have been named in the documents related to those specific accounts. Non-probate assets include:

• Any life insurance policies
• Retirement plans, pension plans, and 401ks
• Annuities
• Trust properties

So, not only will you need to come up with a list of your assets, but you should also call out which assets already have beneficiaries and which assets should be included in your will as probate property.

You can also place some assets in a trust to further ensure they remain out of probate court. Still, remember that a will can cover anything that you forgot to put into a trust. Weigh out the pros and cons of your options to decide which specific assets belong in your will.

A will can be made by any competent person 18 or older. To be a valid will, the state of Maryland requires that the document be:

• In writing
• Signed by you, the testator (or some other person signing on your behalf and under your direction)
• Attested and signed by two or more witnesses in your physical location

Note that Maryland requires you to be physically present when the witnesses perform their duties and sign the document. If you observe the witnesses online or via some other technological means (phone, video, e-mail, etc.), your will is invalid.

After you pass away, you will need someone to oversee your wishes as stated in the will and carry them out accordingly. This is the job of the executor. Your executor needs to be someone you trust to follow your instructions when you’re not around.

On your will, make sure that you list the executor’s full legal name as well as the city, state, and county where they reside. When choosing your executor, it is recommended that you elect someone who lives in the same state as you. Maryland requires extra paperwork for out-of-state executors.

Finally, you never know what the future holds, so consider having a backup executor on deck if your chosen executor cannot fulfill their obligations.

The Maryland will form requires you to list out who you wish to give your property to upon your passing. This can be anything from money to antiques to real property. The receivers of these possessions are called beneficiaries, and they can be family members, friends, minor children, a charity, or even your pet.

Your Maryland will form requires you to list all beneficiaries’ full names, addresses, and relations to you. Upon deciding your beneficiaries, let them know your intentions regarding your will and property, so everyone is on the same page.

Who depends on you and your livelihood? In this step, carefully consider your dependents. What is in the best interests of those who rely on you for care and financial support? Whether for minor children, pets, or an elderly parent, choose guardians that ensure the best care for your loved ones. Also, consider designated alternate guardians in the event your first choices are unable to fulfill their obligations.

After you pass, your estate will automatically settle lingering debts such as medical costs or funeral expenses. However, your executor will also need to handle any additional debts you’ve incurred during your lifetime. It would be best to keep a list of all your debts and hold it in the same place where you hold the will. This will help your executor assess what needs to be paid and tend to your affairs. These debts include:

• Mortgages
• Automobile loans
• Personal loans
• Credit debt
• Tax debt
• Unpaid fines or penalties

Carefully read out the terms of your will and make sure that it indicates your actual and final wishes regarding your possessions.

Once you’ve reviewed the will, sign it in the physical presence of your two witnesses. If you cannot sign the will yourself, you can choose someone to complete this step for you. Once you’ve signed, the will also needs to be signed by the two witnesses. Remember that all parties must be 18 years of age or older. Finally, Maryland law states that beneficiaries listed in the will cannot serve as witnesses.

Once your will has been validly executed, you should make copies of it. Make sure both your executor and your legal representation have copies. Next, ensure that your original legal document is stored in a safe place, such as a safety deposit box or locked fireproof cabinet. Make sure that your executor is aware of where the will is stored and has access to it in the event anything untimely should occur.

Maryland’s Register of Wills offers a service where they hold your will for safekeeping for a one-time fee of $5.

Note: you may want to talk to an attorney is any of the following are true:

• You want to ensure that your will reflects your wishes
• You have significant assets or complex finances
• You have children with special needs
• You have unique family circumstances
• You have a blended family
• You are concerned the will may be contested