Wills Q and A

We answer a few common questions about making an online Will.

Most people know that a Will is an important document that gives instructions about what to do with your assets after you die. But how do you go about creating one? And who makes sure your requests are followed? We’ve put together this Q&A to answer your questions about how Wills work.

Why have we done this? Because our Ezicover customers are able to create an online Will with trusted online drafting platform Willed, at no cost until 30 June this year.*

Who can create a Will?

Every person aged over 18 in Australia can create a legal Will online through the willed.com.au platform. There are no other requirements beyond being of a legal age.

Is an online Will legally valid?

Yes, a Will created through willed.com.au is a legally valid document once it has been witnessed. willed.com.au has worked with a team of lawyers to make sure that each Will built using this platform is valid and enforceable.

What's the right time to make a Will?

As soon as you have assets, dependants, or beneficiaries, you should make a Will. Every adult should write a Will to ensure that what matters most to them is looked after – and this includes the wellbeing of those left behind. Even if you’re just starting out in your working career, even if you’re in your 20s or 30s, having a written Will is an important step to safeguarding your assets and loved ones.

What happens if I die without a Will?

In Australia, if you pass away without a Will it’s called ‘dying intestate’. The state will decide where your assets go and how things are divided based on close personal and legal relationships. In rare cases, your assets may go to the state itself if the state is unable to find legal relatives who would be the beneficiaries of your estate. 

Can my pet be a beneficiary of my Will?

Unfortunately not (in Australia). Your pets are considered assets and should be left to a beneficiary who will look after them. Having a pet is a great reason to set up a Will, because you ensure that your pet will go to someone who’ll love it as much as you do. 

Can my Will be contested?

Yes. There are mechanisms, rules and regulations in each state and territory of Australia that govern the process. However, this doesn’t mean your Will has no value. A well-written Will, that you have taken the time to work on, discuss with your relatives (or other beneficiaries), and finalise, may not be contested at all. Or, if it is, it stands a better chance of the law finding in favour of the Will as written. 

A Will is a legal document that states your wishes. So long as it meets the necessary standards, you can have confidence in it.