Will Writing Checklist Ireland — What to Prepare Before You See a Solicitor

Before you meet a Cork wills solicitor, gathering the right information and thinking through key decisions will make the process faster and cheaper. Use this checklist to prepare.

Personal Information

• Your full legal name and current address
• Your date of birth
• Your PPS number
• If married/civil partner: spouse/partner's full name, date of birth, PPS number
• Names and dates of birth of all children (including from previous relationships)
• Names and dates of birth of any grandchildren you wish to benefit

Assets and Financial Information

• List of all properties owned (sole name or jointly; is it joint tenancy or tenancy-in-common?)
• Bank and credit union accounts (institution name, approximate balance)
• Investment accounts, share portfolios, bonds
• Pension funds and life insurance policies (who are the current nominated beneficiaries?)
• Business interests (sole trader, partnership, limited company shares)
• Cryptocurrency and digital assets
• Significant personal property (art, jewellery, vintage cars, collectibles)
• Money owed to you (loans, debts you are owed)

Debts and Liabilities

• Mortgage(s) — outstanding balance, lender
• Personal loans, car finance
• Credit card debts
• Any guarantees given for others' debts

Decisions to Make Before Your Meeting

Executor(s)

• Who do you want to administer your estate?
• Have you asked them if they are willing?
• Do you want a substitute executor in case the primary cannot act?

Beneficiaries

• Who gets what? Be specific about shares and any specific items.
• What happens if a primary beneficiary predeceases you?
• Do you want to benefit any charities? If so, which ones and how much?

Guardian for Minor Children

• Who should care for your children if both parents die?
• Have you spoken to the proposed guardian?
• Do you want a substitute guardian?

Specific Bequests

• Are there specific items (jewellery, furniture, keepsakes) you want to leave to named individuals?
• Any financial gifts to specific people (lump sums to siblings, nieces, nephews)?

Funeral Wishes

• Burial or cremation?
• Any specific wishes about the service or location?
• Do you want to donate organs?

Other Matters to Consider

• Do you want to make an Enduring Power of Attorney at the same time? (EPA Cork)
• Do you want to make a Living Will / Advance Healthcare Directive? (Living Will Cork)
• Have you reviewed your pension nomination of benefits? (Pensions pass outside the will)
• Have you reviewed life insurance beneficiary nominations?

Ready to Make Your Will?

Use this checklist, then contact a Cork wills solicitor. Most solicitors can complete a straightforward will within 1–2 weeks of your first meeting. See: Best Wills Solicitors Cork.