No one likes pondering what they would do in the event that they were injured or suffered a terminal illness. However, when it comes to your online last will and testament, it's better to get it over while you're capable of it. This will save you, your family, and your friends a lot of pain and torment in the long run.

What should you include in your online last will and testament? There are only a few official requirements to include in the beginning. These include stating your name, that you're at least eighteen years old, and that you're sound of mind and body. You must also include the words “last will and testament” in your will. This erases all doubt that this is indeed a legal document.

There are other requirements to consider, though they vary from state to state. Most states, however, require that your online last will and testament be signed by at least two people who aren't also mentioned on the will. Fortunately, you can choose who these people are, whether it's your boss, your neighbor, or your lawyer. You are also required to name someone to take care of your affairs when you're gone. Again, this can be anyone you trust enough, whether it's your spouse, your best friend, or your sibling. Finally, some states also require that your online last will and testament be notarized as well. Fortunately, finding a notary to sign your will in your area isn't typically a big ordeal.

That done, you're free to decide what happens to your estate, your money, and your belongings when you're gone. Keep in mind that, financially, your friends and loved ones only get what's left after your debts and funeral costs are settled. You can also choose to donate your money or belongings to your favorite charities and organizations. For example, it's not uncommon for will writers to donate their books to universities or their collection of vintage paintings to an art museum.

Another important thing to consider when writing your online last will and testament is what will happen to any dependents. You must choose a guardian to take care of your pets or children while you're gone. You must also decide how much of your money will go toward the care and feeding of your children or pets. If you fail to do this, it's up to the state to decide what will happen to them.

Finally, once you've filled everything out, it's a good idea to run your online last will and testament past your lawyer before submitting it. This will not only ensure that your will holds water in court—it will also erase absolutely any doubt as to your intentions. For example, you may find you need to render previous wills null and void. Learn more today about how to make your online last will and testament work for you!