A moral will is an attempt to transfer an intangible legacy – a heartfelt expression of what truly matters most in a person’s life.  It is designed to let heirs better understand the values, principles, beliefs and life lessons that inspired and motivated the giver.

Here are some things to know when considering drafting one:

1) Is a moral will legally binding?

  • No.  Moral wills are personal statements.  Distribution of assets is handled by a more traditional will.

2) What form does a moral will take?

  • Moral wills have traditionally been a letter but given technological advances can be audio, video or multimedia.

3) How long should a moral will be?

  • Brevity is key.  The goal isn’t to say everything – just the important things.

4) When should it be shared?

  • Traditional wills come into play after a person’s death.  A moral will can similarly be shared at such time.  Sharing during one’s lifetime, however, can invite meaningful dialogue.

5) What should be left out?

  • Negativity and criticism.  It isn’t an opportunity to settle old scores.

6) What should be included?  Here are some ideas:

  • From my parents/grandparents I learned __________.
  • One thing I admired about my parents was __________.
  • I am most grateful for __________.
  • A good piece of advice I received was __________.
  • One thing I should have said is __________.
  • What I want my loved ones to know about me is __________.
  • The most influential people in my life are/were __________.
  • What makes/made me happy is/was __________.
  • The most important holiday to me is/was __________ because __________.
  • Growing up in (name of town) influenced me because __________.
  • Some life-altering events were __________.  They changed my views because __________.
  • The accomplishments I’m most proud of are __________ because __________.
  • How has my definition of success changed?
  • Some of the biggest challenges I faced were __________.  Here’s why: __________.
  • What did I appreciate about money?  Why?
  • What were my biggest regrets about money?  Why?
  • I hope my heirs accomplish __________ with inherited material wealth.
  • My concerns about transferring my material wealth are __________.
  • The things I truly cherish(ed) and love(d) about my life are/were __________.
  • If there’s one thing my loved ones don’t know about me but should it’s __________.
  • The most important piece of advice I can give to my loved ones is __________.
  • I’d like to be remembered as __________.