How do you draw up your will?

What are the different possible forms?

The law provides for the legal devolution of assets and heirs in the event of death, but if you wish to pass on your assets in a different way, you can draw up a will. To do so, you must be at least 16 years old and in full possession of your mental and legal capacities. In Belgium, there are three types of will: the private will, the notarial will and the international will.

The private will is the simplest and least expensive way of drawing up a will. You can make it yourself, by hand, clearly indicating the date and signing it. However, this form of will can involve risks such as the signature, handwriting or mental state being contested at the time of drafting. In addition, the will may be lost or destroyed. To avoid this, it is advisable to have your will deposited with a notary who will register it with the CRT (central register of wills) to guarantee its validity in the event of your death.

A notarial will is drawn up by a notary in the presence of two witnesses or a second notary. All those involved sign the document, which is kept and registered by the notary at the CRT. This form of will is safer and more reliable, but it involves notary fees.

The international will is recommended in situations where foreign assets are involved, such as property or children abroad. It can be drawn up in any language and must be signed by two witnesses and a notary. The document is placed in a sealed envelope and the notary draws up an attestation certifying that the envelope does indeed contain the deceased's will. The international will is kept and registered by the notary at the CRT. This form of will is safer and more reliable, but it also involves notary fees.

If you need help drawing up your will or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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