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[MD] If my wife and I were to both die in an accident at the same time, I want my three children to be equal beneficiaries of my existing will. How do I add that?

My will names my wife as the beneficiary and has my three adult children at the top. If my wife and I were to both die in an accident at the same time, I want my three children to be equal beneficiaries. How do I add that?

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Jessica B
Jessica B

29,480 satisfied customers

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You have two options to add your children to your existing will:

  1. Execute a whole new will to replace the current one.

  2. Execute a codicil, which is a legal amendment to your existing will.

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Codicil to Will Form

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Good morning. My will names my wife as the beneficiary and has my three adult children at the top.

If my wife and I were to both die in an accident at the same time, I want my three children to be equal beneficiaries. How do I add that?

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

Thank you for sharing your situation. Have you already discussed this scenario with your wife and children?

Yes.

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you considered setting up a trust to specify how your assets should be distributed in the event of both you and your wife passing away simultaneously?

No. I am fine just adding it to the will.

Lexi

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with updating your will.

No.

Jessica B

Jessica B

Thank you for choosing AskaLawyer! My name is Jessica and I’m a licensed attorney here to assist you.

Does the will have your children listed as contingent beneficiaries in the event your wife dies?

No.

Jessica B

Jessica B

You have two options to add your children to your existing will:

  1. Execute a whole new will to replace the current one.

  2. Execute a codicil, which is a legal amendment to your existing will.

If we write an addendum stating the kids as contingent beneficiaries, is that sufficient?

Jessica B

Jessica B

No, an informal addendum isn’t legally binding.
You need a formal codicil or new will.

What state are you a permanent resident of?

Maryland.

Jessica B

Jessica B

Here is a codicil form you can use in Maryland:

Codicil to Will Form (PDF)

Thanks.

Jessica B

Jessica B

29,480 satisfied customers

Jessica B
Welcome! Have a similar question?

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