Wills

If properly executed, a will is a document that disposes of the assets titled in a person’s name upon the death of said person. A will allows you to name a Personal Administrator or Executor, who is the person in charge of your estate. This person will collect the assets of the estate, pay claims and any death taxes, and overseeing the distribution of any remaining assets to the designated beneficiaries. Executing a Will also allows you to name a guardian for any minor children.

If you do not have a will at the time of your death, the Missouri statute of intestate succession will determine who gets your property, and by whom it is handled.

Please note that a will does not dispose of joint property or property such as a life insurance policy that names a designated beneficiary. This type of property will pass by operation of law to the surviving joint owner or the designated beneficiary.