Prepare your will wishes in Israel

Make names and language choices explicit

Use the names that identify each person clearly and check consistency across documents and languages. If you need a translation or do not understand the draft language, resolve that before signing.

List property outside Israel separately. A local draft should not be assumed to coordinate foreign property, an existing overseas will or another legal system. Ask a qualified reviewer how the documents should work together.

Distinguish a will from the later probate process

The Israeli government describes the application for a probate order as a separate service involving the original will and supporting information. Draft preparation does not obtain that order.

Keep drafting, the applicable signing procedure, any decision about depositing the will, and later estate administration as separate milestones. Do not mark every stage complete because a PDF has been generated.

Questions to settle before drafting

Bring a clear record of the people you want to provide for, any dependants and backup wishes. Flag family obligations, previous wills, business interests and arrangements intended to affect both spouses.

Mutual arrangements and restrictions on later changes need particular attention. Do not assume two similar drafts automatically create the arrangement you intend.

• Confirm the intended document language and spelling of names.
• Describe jointly owned and foreign assets without guessing their legal treatment.
• Identify the people you trust to help with the process.
• Ask who should review the draft and how the original will be stored.