PDF
Word
Last Will and Testament Template - Missouri
A Missouri Last Will and Testament is a legal form that allows an individual - also known as a Testator - to identify who should receive their property, elect guardians for their minor children, and put an agent in charge of carrying out their wishes. There are two other parties named in a will: an Executor (the agent appointed by a Testator to carry out the terms of the will), and a Beneficiary (a person deriving advantage from the will).
Preparing the document also minimizes tensions among surviving family members - battling over possessions can weaken what may have been a strong family.
The Missouri Last Will, available for download below, is defined by § 472.010 and regulated by Title XXI Chapter 474 (Sections 310-530) . The document must be signed by two credible individuals in the presence of the Testator. Click on this link to create your own form with our online customizable template.
What Is a Last Will and Testament in Missouri?
On the whole, a Last Will and Testament allows a Testator to allocate their assets between any number of parties according to their wishes. Creating a will gives the Testator sole discretion over the distribution of their estate. If the Testator is the owner of a business or has any investments, their will can direct a smooth transition of those assets as well.
Making a will is a necessary - and, usually, a fairly simple process - that can save the Testator's family time, money, and give all parties peace of mind.
How to Write a Will and Testament in Missouri?
Each state has its specific requirements that a Last Will and Testament template must meet to be legally acknowledged. A Testator is free to choose what to include in their will. The basic instructions for creating a will in Missouri are as follows:
- The Testator must make a list of the people that they would like to elect as beneficiaries.
- The Testator should then create an inventory of all assets (real estate, vehicles, bank accounts) and calculate their worth.
- The money and property must then be split between the selected beneficiaries.
- A portion of the assets that will go towards paying inheritance tax, mortgages and funeral costs should be calculated and included in the will.
In most cases, it is best practice to select an Executor - a person that carries out a Testator's wishes in accordance with the will. Any adult 18 years or older and that has never been convicted of a felony can be an Executor for a will.
Download Last Will and Testament Template - Missouri
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
