It’s really common to get your will done before completing your family.

If your family grows you need to consider the effect on your will. 

There are different considerations for biological, adopted, foster or step-children. 

Either way I recommend having the conversation – with your spouse and your will specialist.

Book in with me for a FREE15 minute discovery call to ask me anything.

Biological & Legally Adopted

I often use the phrase “my children” in my clients’ wills, especially for couples that wish to have more children. 

This means if more children are born, they will automatically be included in any gift to “my children”.

Practically, this means their will doesn’t usually need to be updated following the birth of a child.

For any will I’ve prepared, this would be the same for a legally adopted child.

Not all wills are created equal.  You need to check the specific wording of your will to see if it would have the same effect.

Informally Adopted & Foster

If you want to provide for a child under your care that you have informally adopted or foster, this needs to be contemplated and provided for in your will.

I recommend making a conscious decision one way or the other.

Without being addressed, the subsequent guardian of a child in your care may be able to make a claim on your estate for that child. 

To be eligible the child must fit within the category of a dependant (meaning wholly or substantially maintained and supported by you on your death).

Confused?  I can help you.

Book in for my FREE15 discovery call and ask me your questions.

Step-children

OK so you have re-created the “Brady Bunch” in real life.

If you or your spouse have children from another relationship you need to consider questions like:

·       On death, how would you like to leave your assets to your spouse and any children?

·       Do you want to leave anything to your stepchildren?

·       If you don’t want to leave anything to your stepchildren, what is the likelihood their guardian or they will make a claim on your estate?

How you leave your assets is 100% your prerogative and I believe there is no right way.

Your circumstances are unique and I recommend getting good advice to make sure your wishes will one day be carried out.

Don’t have a will?

I’m not going to cover off on what happens if you die without a will.  I don’t recommend it. 

Stop procrastinating.

Here’s the link to book in with me to get your will done BOOK HERE.