Writing a Will

A will is a notarial deed in which you record what should happen to your possessions after your death. Without a will, statutory inheritance law applies, which may not always match your wishes.

Why a will?

With a will, you can decide who inherits what. You can deviate from the statutory distribution, appoint an executor, arrange guardianship for minor children and record specific wishes.

Without a will, statutory inheritance law applies: your partner and children inherit automatically. But if you want your best friend, a charity or a stepchild to inherit, you need a will.

Types of wills

The surviving spouse will is the most common form: the surviving partner inherits everything, the children receive a claim against the survivor. A usufruct will gives the survivor the right to use assets. A legacy is a specific allocation of a possession.

How to create a will?

A will is always drawn up by a notary. You make an appointment, discuss your wishes and the notary drafts the document. After signing, the will is registered at the Central Will Registry (CTR).

What does a will cost?

A simple will costs approximately €300 to €500. A will for partners (two wills) costs approximately €500 to €800. More complex wills with trusts or international aspects cost more. Always request a quote from the notary in advance.

Modifying a will

You can have your will modified at any time by the notary. This is recommended after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child or purchase of a house.