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Thread ID: 107594 2010-02-23 03:40:00 Setting up a will bk T (215) PC World Chat
Post ID Timestamp Content User
860807 2010-02-23 03:40:00 Do I need to go to a lawyer to setup one? Approximately how much it's going to cost me for doing a very basic one? bk T (215)
860808 2010-02-23 03:42:00 If you want a basic one the Public Trust does one for free. Nomad (952)
860809 2010-02-23 03:59:00 Or you can get a form and do it yourself. Needs to be witnessed. Sweep (90)
860810 2010-02-23 04:48:00 DIY

2 witnesses that don't benefit from the will to sign as well.
thats it.
pctek (84)
860811 2010-02-23 09:30:00 No problem with DIY as long as there is nothing contentious, wills that are deemed unfair can and are frequently challenged, so unless what you want is quite simple, use the Public Trust or AMP Perpetual Trustees.

Another point - when drafting a will one should try and take a long term view - ie you don't want to be amending it every other year.

For the record these organisations do the Will FOC - payback comes when they administer the estate - There is no such thing as a free meal.
KenESmith (6287)
860812 2010-02-23 19:43:00 wills that are deemed unfair can and are frequently challenged, so unless what you want is quite simple, use the Public Trust or AMP Perpetual Trustees.

.

That's no guarantee it won't be contested.
pctek (84)
860813 2010-02-24 07:07:00 My brother had his will arranged by the public trust. When he died I went to them to get it sorted. The person I saw asked if the estate value was under $10000. When I replied yes he said you sort it out. We're not interested. gradebdan (2186)
860814 2010-02-24 07:28:00 I've also heard that the Public Trust charge a fee when they administer the estate, and the fee depends on the size of the estate. So while it might cost more upfront to use a lawyer, it's better off in the long run. Lizard (2409)
860815 2010-02-24 07:31:00 I've also heard that the Public Trust charge a fee when they administer the estate, and the fee depends on the size of the estate. So while it might cost more upfront to use a lawyer, it's better off in the long run.

I had my will via the Public Trust it was free. They will bill you when it comes into effect. If they pass away and they have to deal to it. In that regard, even a lawyer would charge you something to administer it - there no free lunch.
Nomad (952)
860816 2010-02-24 08:14:00 DIY

2 witnesses that don't benefit from the will to sign as well.
thats it.I've thought that would be an easy route too, but when you think about it whomever you name as executor of your will has to be prepared to close your affairs. This means applying for access to banking accounts, settling unpaid debts, any tax owed to the IRD and making sure your assets are distributed (or sold) according to your wishes. How many lay people would know how to go about this?

The Public Trust charge fees that come out of your estate. They are not a charity. Shop around and compare their fees with other similar companies eg New Zealand Guardian Trust and some local lawyers.

Then tell your family what company/lawyer has a record of your will.
Jen (38)
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