The Most Common Mistakes People Make in Their Wills (and How to Avoid Them)

A Will is one of the most important documents you’ll ever sign — yet it’s often rushed, overlooked, or done using an unreliable method. These are the most common mistakes people make in their Wills and how to steer clear of them:

🔹 1. Using vague or confusing language
Statements like “I leave my belongings to my children” can create confusion — especially in blended families. Being specific is key.

🔹 2. Forgetting to update the Will after major life events
Marriage, divorce, having children, or losing a loved one are all times to review your Will. You’d be surprised how many people still name an ex-partner as Executor!

🔹 3. Not following the signing rules
Under Western Australian law, a Will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses. Skipping this step (or getting it wrong) can invalidate your Will entirely.

🔹 4. Overlooking substitute Executors or guardians
Naming only one person to act — without a backup — can cause delays if that person is unwilling or unable to act when needed.

Avoiding these errors doesn’t have to be difficult. Estate Essentials guides you through the Will creation process step-by-step and includes helpful prompts to avoid the most common oversights.

✅ Avoid costly mistakes — click here to get started with our Core Wills today.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Estate Essentials is not a law firm and does not provide legal services. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it may not apply to your specific circumstances or address all potential issues. We strongly recommend consulting an independent legal professional to ensure your estate planning documents meet your unique requirements.