After drafting your will, you should keep it in a safe location. The executor you appoint should not have difficulties finding it when it needs to go to probate. Nonetheless, it should be a private place.
This guide discusses four locations you should consider to keep your will.
1. In a home safe
If you have a safe at home, it will be a good place to keep your will in it. If you don’t, consider installing one. Many safes in the market are resistant to elements, such as fire, water and burglary. Thus, it may be impossible to destroy or steal your original will and its copies.
2. In a filing cabinet
If you have a filing cabinet that can be secured, you can keep your documents in it. The cabinet should be in a safe location, perhaps in your home office.
3. With your attorney
Sometimes, you can give your attorney the will to store it in a safe location. It will help to inform your executor and people you trust that your attorney has it. When you die, your attorney will give the will to the executor to submit to the probate court.
4. In your safe deposit box
Safe deposit boxes in banks are also secure for wills – but choose this option with caution. Ensure that your executor or any other loved one has equal access to the contents in the box. You will take them to the bank to provide their ID and signature.
You need to keep your will in a safe and easily accessible location and let the people you trust know of it. If you’re unsure what would be best, get legal help to protect your documents.