Codicils Allow for Small Changes to a Will Without a Complete Overhaul

Do you need to make minor changes to a will? You can add an amendment called a “codicil” without having to revamp the entire document. This can be an ideal way to revise a will when you have simple changes, such as changing the name of an executor or swapping out any other provisions. In doing so, you can avoid having to write the will over again just to accommodate one or two minor changes.

Below are a few things you should consider when writing up a codicil:

• You should clarify in the codicil which portions of the will are being changed and the changes you wish to make
• You should state the date on which the changes are effective (the date on which you signed that codicil)
• You should state whether any provisions of the original will are affected by your codicil

Any language you use in the codicil should be as clear as possible to avoid there being any conflicting interpretations of your wishes.

There are some circumstances in which it makes more sense to recreate your will entirely rather than use a codicil. If, for example, you find yourself trying to cram too many changes into a single codicil (which you shouldn’t do) or if you feel as though you need to draft many codicils to revise your will to the point at which it will meet your needs, you should consider re-writing your will entirely to reduce the possibility of challenges to your will, or general confusion in its interpretation.

For more information on codicils and how to draft one for your estate planning purposes, meet with a trusted Tampa will and trusts lawyer at BaumannKangas Estate Law.