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Last Updated: September 19, 2026

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A side note to your Will is usually prepared as a letter of wishes: a private, plain-English companion that gives executors, trustees, guardians and family the context a formal Will cannot easily carry. It can explain the reasons behind sensitive decisions, identify immediate priorities, describe how you hope trustees use their discretion, preserve guardian and dependent-care guidance, record sentimental-item preferences and point decision-makers towards the records they will need.

A useful letter of wishes is deliberately non-binding. It supports the legal documents without trying to amend them. It explains purpose and priorities without ordering an executor or trustee to act outside the powers in the Will or trust deed. It is clear enough to reduce uncertainty, but flexible enough to remain useful as family circumstances, prices, services and beneficiary needs change.

The full working document below goes far beyond a short side note. It includes a complete 20-section letter of wishes template covering document status, access, the executor’s first actions, advisers and records, family communication, unequal provision, trustees, guardians, adult dependents, personal effects, funeral wishes, pets, digital records, business continuity, property, charitable wishes, family history, private messages and version control.

It belongs beside—not inside—your emergency binder, funeral wishes, digital legacy directory and goodbye letter. Those records solve different problems and may need different recipients or delivery timing.

What the strongest letter of wishes resources cover

The leading Australian resources agree that a letter of wishes is a supporting document rather than a second Will. Willed’s letter of wishes guidance explains its role in giving executors context, recording reasons for distributions or exclusions and supplementing a Will without contradicting it.

The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance broadens the practical coverage to guardian instructions, organ donation, digital assets, pet care, funeral preferences, people to notify and trusted advisers. It also confirms that a letter of wishes does not override the Will.

Carroll & O’Dea’s legal analysis of letters of wishes adds the most important drafting safeguards: address the correct decision-maker, mark the document private and confidential, state that it is unenforceable, avoid directive language and do not fetter trustee discretion.

The complete Evaheld template includes all of that, then adds role-specific access, first-72-hours priorities, a document and adviser map, safe language for exclusions and unequal support, disability and adult-dependent guidance, conflict-sensitive family communication, business and property continuity, digital-security boundaries, separate emotional messages and full version control.

What a letter of wishes can do—and what it cannot do

A letter of wishes can explain the human purpose behind your estate plan. It can say why one beneficiary received substantial help during your lifetime, why a testamentary trust was chosen, which personal items carry family meaning, how you hope guardians preserve a child’s relationships and culture, or what factors trustees should consider when balancing present support with long-term security.

It cannot change the legal distribution in your Will. It cannot create a new executor, guardian, trust, beneficiary, gift or condition. It cannot remove a trustee’s discretion where the Will or trust deed grants that discretion. It cannot make an informal wish more legally powerful than the formal instrument.

Use an express disclaimer near the beginning: This letter records my personal wishes and explanations. It is not intended to be a Will, codicil, trust instrument or other legally binding document. It does not amend or override my Will, trust deed, beneficiary nominations, powers of attorney, guardianship appointments or any other formal document.

JB Solicitors’ statement of wishes guidance similarly describes the document as a confidential supporting guide for executors. For any issue affecting ownership, trustee powers, tax, superannuation, guardianship or a likely estate dispute, obtain current legal advice.

Create your free secure letter of wishes in Evaheld now, beginning with the disclaimer, current Will details and the people who should receive each section.

How to organise the letter for executors, trustees, guardians and family

A letter addressed only “To my family” may not give each decision-maker the information relevant to their role. A stronger structure uses a short cover page and clearly labelled sections.

Executor section: immediate priorities, people to notify, document locations, advisers, property and family communication.
Trustee section: principles and factors to consider when exercising discretion.
Guardian section: children’s values, routines, culture, health, learning, relationships and emotional safety.
Dependent-care section: adult dependents, disability supports, ageing relatives and pets.
Family section: sentimental items, explanations and personal context appropriate for wider sharing.
Private appendices: sensitive explanations or individual messages that should not be given to every recipient.

Role-based sections also make updates safer. A changed pet medication should not require redistributing a private explanation about unequal inheritances. A new trustee should not automatically receive a child’s personal letter. Evaheld’s Rooms and selective sharing guidance can keep those audiences separate.

How to explain unequal gifts, exclusions and lifetime support safely

This is one of the highest-risk parts of the document. A calm explanation may help an executor understand the estate plan. An angry narrative may create new conflict, disclose private information or become material in a dispute.

Keep the wording factual and proportionate. Useful context may include substantial lifetime gifts, disability-related needs, financial dependency, caregiving contributions, prior property transfers, family-business succession, obligations to a current or former partner, or a beneficiary’s existing independent provision.

A safer structure is to identify the decision neutrally, state the relevant chronology or practical context, confirm that the binding outcome is contained in the Will or trust, avoid criticism that is not necessary to explain the decision, and record the solicitor or adviser who holds the supporting file.

For example: During my lifetime I contributed substantially towards Alex’s home purchase. My estate plan also provides additional protected support for Jordan because of ongoing disability-related needs. The binding distribution is contained in my Will. This paragraph records the context only.

Armstrong Legal’s NSW letter of wishes guidance explains that the document may record reasons for limiting or excluding provision. That possible evidentiary role makes professional review especially important.

How to guide trustees without removing their discretion

Where a Will establishes a testamentary trust, the trustee may need guidance about the purpose of the trust and the factors you considered important. The letter should help the trustee exercise discretion, not replace that discretion with a private rulebook.

Write in terms such as “I hope”, “I would like the trustees to consider”, “factors that mattered to me include” and “subject to the trust deed, current law and the beneficiary’s circumstances”. Avoid “must”, “shall”, “only if” or threats of consequences where the legal instrument does not impose them.

Useful trustee considerations may include health, therapy, disability and accessibility needs; education and training; safe housing; financial capability; addiction, exploitation or coercive-control risks; the beneficiary’s other resources; and the balance between present quality of life and long-term preservation.

The trustee remains responsible for applying the governing document and legal duties. The letter should acknowledge that circumstances may change in ways you could not predict.

Guardian guidance that protects values without trying to control childhood

A guardian needs more than a list of schools and activities. They need to understand what makes the child feel safe, which relationships matter, how culture and family identity are expressed, and which routines or supports are essential rather than optional.

Record preferences, not impossible guarantees. Future guardians must respond to the child’s best interests, finances, health, location and changing needs. “Please prioritise continuity at the current school if it remains safe and practical” is more useful than “the children must never change schools.”

Include attachment figures, siblings, grandparents and chosen family; schooling and learning support; culture, language and faith; health conditions and current clinicians; comfort objects, pets and sensory needs; technology, sport and friendships; and what helps the child during grief or change.

Keep the formal guardian appointment in the Will. The letter provides context for the legally appointed person. Evaheld’s family readiness checklist can connect the guardian section with the child’s health, school, contact and emergency records.

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Complete letter of wishes template for executors, trustees and guardians

Replace every grey guidance box with your own wording. Remove sections that do not apply. Keep the final document dated, versioned and consistent with the current Will, trust deeds and appointment documents. The copy given to each recipient may contain only the sections relevant to their role.

Section 1: Document identity, status and legal boundary

1.1 Who created this letter of wishes, and when?

Add your full legal name, preferred name, address, date prepared, version number and the date of the Will or trust documents this letter supports.

1.2 What is the purpose of this document?

Explain that it gives personal, practical and values-based guidance to the named executors, trustees, guardians and family.

1.3 What non-binding disclaimer applies?

State that it is not a Will, codicil, trust instrument or binding direction and does not override any formal document.

1.4 Which earlier letters does this version replace?

List earlier dates and locations, and state that they should be marked superseded or destroyed after the current version is confirmed.

Section 2: Intended readers, privacy and access timing

2.1 Who should read the complete letter?

Name the executor, substitute executor, trustee, solicitor or other person who may see the whole document.

2.2 Which people should receive only selected sections?

Match each guardian, family member, business contact or adviser to the sections relevant to their role.

2.3 When should access be given?

State whether access is immediate, after death, after the executor accepts the role, during incapacity under a separate authority, or only after professional advice.

2.4 Which sections are private and confidential?

Identify sensitive explanations, personal messages or family information that should not be circulated beyond named people.

Section 3: Will, trusts and formal estate documents

3.1 Where is the original Will?

Name the solicitor, safe-custody service or exact physical location. Include the Will date and contact details.

3.2 What other formal documents exist?

List trust deeds, company constitutions, shareholder agreements, binding nominations, powers of attorney, guardianship documents and relevant succession agreements.

3.3 Which document controls if there is an inconsistency?

Confirm that the applicable formal legal document prevails and professional advice should be obtained before relying on this letter.

Section 4: Executor’s first 72 hours

4.1 Who should be contacted first?

List immediate family, chosen family, solicitor, funeral contact, business contact, pet carer and any cultural or faith leader in priority order.

4.2 What property or dependent risks require immediate action?

Include pets, livestock, children, vulnerable adults, vacant property, perishable stock, business operations, security, vehicles and urgent bills.

4.3 Which dedicated plans should be opened immediately?

Point to funeral wishes, the emergency binder, pet care guide, business continuity plan and digital legacy directory rather than repeating them here.

Section 5: Adviser and document map

5.1 Who are the key professional advisers?

Add solicitor, accountant, financial adviser, broker, banker, business adviser, property manager and insurance contacts, with the reason each person matters.

5.2 Where are financial, tax and ownership records?

Identify the record system, file location, years covered and adviser who can confirm what must be retained.

5.3 Which records should not be destroyed?

List original certificates, ownership records, trust documents, tax records, valuations, loan documents, business agreements and family-history originals.

The Australian Taxation Office’s record-keeping information can help the executor or adviser determine which tax records may still be required.

Section 6: Family communication and conflict management

6.1 Who should communicate with the wider family?

Name one primary communicator and a backup. State how often updates should be provided and which details should remain confidential.

6.2 Are there safety, estrangement or coercion concerns?

Record only necessary facts, contact restrictions, safe communication methods and the adviser who holds fuller information.

6.3 What process may reduce conflict?

Suggest separate updates, a family meeting, mediation, written questions, independent advice or another process without imposing an unlawful condition.

Section 7: Context behind unequal provision or exclusions

7.1 Which estate decisions may surprise someone?

Identify the decision neutrally and confirm that the legally binding outcome is contained in the Will or trust.

7.2 What factual context explains the decision?

Record relevant lifetime gifts, prior property transfers, disability needs, dependency, caregiving, family-business arrangements or other circumstances without personal attacks.

7.3 Which professional file supports the explanation?

Name the solicitor or adviser and file reference. Do not reproduce privileged advice inside a widely shared letter.

Section 8: Trustee principles and priorities

8.1 What was the purpose of each trust?

Explain the human purpose, such as long-term security, disability support, asset protection, education or flexible support across changing circumstances.

8.2 Which factors do you hope trustees consider?

List health, education, housing, capability, dependency, vulnerability, other resources, safety and long-term sustainability as considerations rather than commands.

8.3 Which distributions may require extra care?

Note high-risk business ventures, coercive relationships, addiction, bankruptcy, large loans, luxury purchases or early capital access, subject to the trust deed and professional advice.

8.4 What should trustees avoid assuming?

State that present circumstances, disability, relationship status, income or capability may change and that the trust deed and current evidence should govern each decision.

Section 9: Guardians of minor children

9.1 What values should guide the children’s upbringing?

Record values such as safety, kindness, cultural identity, education, faith, creativity, family connection, independence and emotional honesty.

9.2 Which relationships should remain active where safe?

Name siblings, grandparents, extended family, chosen family, mentors, friends and community connections.

9.3 What schooling, health and learning information matters?

Add school, learning needs, therapies, clinicians, medications, allergies, communication supports and current care-plan locations.

9.4 What routines and comforts help each child?

Record sleep, food, sensory needs, comfort objects, pets, activities, family rituals and what helps during grief or change.

Section 10: Adult dependents, disability and ageing relatives

10.1 Who depends on ongoing support?

Name adult children, relatives with disability, ageing parents or another person who relies on you financially, physically or emotionally.

10.2 Which supports must continue without interruption?

List accommodation, support workers, providers, medication, transport, communication, appointments, routines and funding contacts.

10.3 Who understands the person’s preferences and communication?

Name trusted family, advocates, case managers or clinicians and explain the role each person plays.

10.4 What must decision-makers not assume?

Record the person’s abilities, preferences, supported decision-making needs and rights. Avoid treating disability or age as automatic incapacity.

Section 11: Personal effects, heirlooms and family archives

11.1 Which items carry sentimental meaning?

Identify the item precisely, its location, preferred recipient, backup recipient and the story behind it.

11.2 Which items may have material value or cause conflict?

Flag jewellery, art, collections, vehicles, tools, shares or other property that should be checked against the Will and valued where appropriate.

11.3 Which photographs, recipes or records should be copied?

State which originals should be preserved, which people need copies, how private material should be handled and who knows the family history.

11.4 What fair process should apply if several people want the same item?

Suggest discussion, alternating choices, copies, valuation, sale or another process, subject to the Will and executor’s duties.

Section 12: Funeral, memorial and donation wishes

12.1 Where is the complete funeral plan?

Point to the current dedicated funeral wishes document and name the person who holds it.

12.2 Which preferences must be known before arrangements begin?

Summarise burial, cremation, donation, cultural or faith requirements, prepaid arrangements and the funeral provider if chosen.

12.3 What are your organ and tissue donation wishes?

Record Australian Organ Donor Register status, family members informed and any relevant contact. Recognise that clinical eligibility is determined separately.

12.4 Is body donation arranged?

Name the program, registration details, acceptance conditions, contact process and fallback funeral arrangements.

DonateLife explains registration on the Australian Organ Donor Register and why family awareness matters.

Section 13: Pets, livestock and immediate animal care

13.1 Which animals rely on you?

List every pet, livestock animal or other animal, with identification and current location.

13.2 Who is the immediate and long-term carer?

Name the preferred and backup carers, confirm their agreement and point to any formal funding or ownership arrangements.

13.3 Where are the detailed care instructions?

Point to the current pet care guide, veterinarian, medication list, food, carrier and insurance records.

Section 14: Digital assets, accounts and data

14.1 Where is the authorised digital asset directory?

Identify the secure directory containing devices, accounts, cloud storage, social media, domains, subscriptions and digital property.

14.2 Where are credentials and recovery methods stored?

Name the password manager, protected record or professional custodian. Do not write live passwords or recovery codes here.

14.3 Which accounts should be preserved, memorialised, transferred or closed?

Summarise the high-level wishes and point to platform-specific instructions and legal authority.

14.4 Which files or communications are private?

State what should not be published or circulated and who may make decisions about sensitive data.

The Australian Cyber Security Centre recommends keeping account credentials in a reputable password manager rather than an unsecured letter.

Section 15: Business, company and professional continuity

15.1 Which businesses, companies or professional roles require action?

List entities, ABNs or ACNs, your role, co-owners, key employees and the adviser who holds the formal succession documents.

15.2 What must happen during the first business week?

Identify payroll, banking, client communication, insurance, licences, stock, premises, delegated authority and critical contracts.

15.3 Where are binding ownership and control instructions?

Point to shareholder, partnership, buy-sell, trust, constitution and succession documents. Do not attempt to transfer control through this letter.

15.4 What human context should successors understand?

Explain values, key relationships, employee considerations, client promises and why ownership, management and family equality may not be the same.

ASIC’s company change information can help authorised advisers identify formal notification requirements.

Section 16: Real property, home and household context

16.1 Which properties require immediate management?

List homes, investment properties, farms, storage, holiday properties and overseas property, with managers, occupants and security risks.

16.2 Who has keys, access cards or property knowledge?

Name the trusted people, property manager, strata contact, insurer and location of the household manual.

16.3 Are there occupants, tenants or family members requiring careful communication?

Record lawful arrangements, safety issues, accessibility needs and the professional adviser who should guide the executor.

16.4 Which maintenance or insurance matters cannot wait?

List urgent repairs, insurance renewals, mortgage or rates contacts, pools, livestock, alarms and seasonal risks.

Section 17: Charitable, cultural and community wishes

17.1 Which charitable or community commitments matter?

Name causes, organisations, volunteering roles, recurring donations or community responsibilities and explain why they mattered.

17.2 Where are any binding gifts recorded?

Point to the Will, trust or donation arrangement. Do not create a charitable gift through this non-binding section.

17.3 Which cultural, language or faith relationships should be notified?

Name leaders, organisations, communities, ceremonies, archives or obligations that should be considered.

Section 18: Family history, values and personal context

18.1 Which stories explain the family’s identity?

Record migrations, places, businesses, caregiving, community service, traditions and major turning points.

18.2 Which values influenced the estate plan?

Explain fairness, responsibility, independence, care, stewardship, opportunity or another value through concrete decisions and stories.

18.3 Which inherited patterns should not continue?

Name silence, overwork, financial secrecy, prejudice, coercion or another pattern without turning the section into an accusation.

18.4 Where is the fuller emotional legacy?

Point to your ethical will, legacy letters, recordings or family-history archive rather than overloading this executor document.

Section 19: Private messages and recipient-specific notes

19.1 Which people have a private message?

List the recipient, message title, format, storage location and intended delivery timing.

19.2 Who is responsible for delivery?

Name a trusted person and backup, or identify the controlled delivery method.

19.3 May the message be shared with others?

State whether it is private, may be shared in full, may be quoted selectively or should be withheld if circumstances have materially changed.

Section 20: Storage, review and change history

20.1 Where is the current letter stored?

Record the protected digital location, physical original, solicitor copy and person who knows how to retrieve it.

20.2 Who has received or can access it?

List each person, their role, the sections available to them, access timing and date shared.

20.3 When should it be reviewed?

Review annually and after a new Will, birth, death, separation, marriage, major gift, changed executor or guardian, trust amendment, business change or significant conflict.

20.4 What changed in this version?

Record the date, sections changed, superseded copies removed, professional review and people notified.

Complete and share your free secure letter of wishes in your Evaheld Legacy Vault for free. Keep the whole document protected, then give each executor, trustee, guardian or family member only the sections they genuinely need.

Worked letter of wishes example

Private and confidential—to my executors and trustees.

This letter records my personal wishes and explanations. It is not legally binding and does not amend or override my Will dated 12 March 2026, the testamentary trusts created by it, my beneficiary nominations or any other formal document.

My first priority is that my children and dog are safe before administrative work begins. My sister Mia has agreed to collect the children if needed, and Daniel is the backup. Bella’s full care guide and veterinarian details are stored in my Evaheld vault. My funeral wishes are in a separate document and should be given to Mia and the funeral director immediately.

I have made different financial provision for Anna and James. During my lifetime I helped Anna purchase a home. James has ongoing disability-related needs and may require protected support over a longer period. The binding arrangements are contained in my Will. This explanation is provided only to help you understand the context and should not be treated as a new direction.

For the trustees, the factors that mattered most to me were safe housing, health and therapy, communication support, education chosen by the beneficiary, protection from exploitation and enough flexibility to respond to changing circumstances. I do not intend this letter to restrict the discretion granted by the trust.

For the children’s guardian, please keep them connected to both sides of the family where those relationships remain safe and supportive. Continuity at school matters, but their wellbeing matters more. They should not be required to preserve every family tradition or remain in one place if their needs change.

Mum’s gold bracelet is in the blue jewellery box. I hope Anna receives it because she knows its history. If the Will or the executor’s legal duties require a different outcome, the formal documents must prevail. Please scan the family photographs before distributing the original albums so both children can retain the shared history.

The current version of this letter and all role-specific sections are stored in Evaheld. My solicitor holds the Will and a copy of this letter. Please mark every earlier letter superseded.

Letter of wishes mistakes that create legal or family risk

Do not use the letter to change the Will, create a new gift or appoint a new legal decision-maker. Do not order a trustee to act contrary to the trust deed. Do not write accusations, insults or sensitive family history that is unnecessary to explain the estate plan.

Do not put passwords, PINs, recovery codes or full identity details in a document that may be copied. Do not describe valuable items vaguely. Do not leave conflicting versions in different folders. Do not assume the executor will find an unlabelled file after death.

Do not put time-critical funeral information only inside documents that may be opened after arrangements begin. Do not duplicate the full pet, business, household and digital plans; point to the current dedicated records.

Most importantly, do not assume a comprehensive template removes the need for advice. Complex exclusions, trusts, blended families, foreign assets, business succession, vulnerable beneficiaries and family provision risks need professional review. Evaheld’s estate-planning lawyer preparation guide can help organise the questions and supporting records before the appointment.

How to store, share and update a letter of wishes

Keep the current letter close to the Will or with the solicitor who holds it, but do not attach it physically in a way that could create confusion about whether it forms part of the Will. Ask your solicitor how they prefer it labelled and stored.

Maintain one current digital version with a visible date and version number. Keep role-specific copies or controlled access for guardians, trustees, business contacts and family. Mark every old copy as superseded and remove outdated links.

Review the document after any event that changes the formal estate plan or the factual guidance behind it. This includes a new Will, major lifetime gift, changed family relationship, new dependent, trust amendment, changed trustee, business sale, relocation or changed care arrangements.

Evaheld’s legacy contact settings checklist can help confirm that the right people still have the right level of access.

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Why create and share a letter of wishes in Evaheld

A letter of wishes changes more often than a Will. Children grow, guardians move, pets age, business contacts change, lifetime gifts alter the context and trustees need current—not historical—information.

Evaheld gives the document one protected home beside the supporting records while allowing each audience to receive only what they need. The executor can see the full handover. A guardian can receive the child-care section. A pet carer can receive the pet plan. Private family explanations can remain restricted.

The letter can also sit beside the current Will location, executor handover pack, digital directory, family messages and adviser contacts, creating one coherent path without turning every record into one enormous document.

Start your free secure letter of wishes today. Complete the disclaimer, executor priorities and document map first, then add the trustee, guardian and family sections that would remove the most uncertainty.

Letter of wishes FAQs

What is a letter of wishes in Australia?

A letter of wishes is a private, usually non-binding document that sits beside a Will or trust and gives executors, trustees, guardians or family plain-language guidance and context. It may explain sentimental items, family circumstances, guardianship values, trustee priorities, funeral preferences and practical information. Evaheld’s online Will guide explains what belongs in the formal Will, while The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance explains its supporting role.

Is a letter of wishes legally binding?

Generally no. It expresses guidance and intention but does not override a Will, trust deed or other binding instrument. Executors and trustees may consider it but must act within their legal powers and duties. Evaheld’s letter of wishes guide keeps the distinction clear, while Carroll & O’Dea’s legal guidance on letters of wishes warns against directive language or fettering trustee discretion.

What should I include in a letter of wishes?

Include the document’s purpose and status, who should read it, executor priorities, adviser and document locations, family context, trustee considerations, guardian values, dependant and pet care, sentimental-item wishes, funeral preferences, digital-record locations, business context and review details. Evaheld’s executor handover pack can hold the wider practical record, while The Art of Estate Planning’s letter of wishes workbook overview shows the breadth of useful prompts.

Can I use a letter of wishes to explain unequal gifts or leaving someone out?

You can provide calm factual context, but this is one of the highest-risk uses of the document. Avoid insults, accusations and unnecessary private detail, and obtain legal advice before including reasons that may later affect a dispute. Evaheld’s estate-planning lawyer preparation guide can help organise the facts, while Armstrong Legal’s NSW letter of wishes guidance explains its possible evidentiary role.

Can a letter of wishes decide who receives jewellery, photographs or heirlooms?

It can record a preference and the story behind an item, but it may not legally transfer ownership. Valuable or disputed property should be dealt with through the Will or another legally effective arrangement, and the wording should align with any personal-chattels clause. Evaheld’s heirloom planning guide helps document the item and story, while JB Solicitors’ statement of wishes guidance explains the document’s informal supporting role.

What should I write to the trustees of a testamentary trust?

Explain the purposes and factors you hope they consider, such as health, education, disability support, housing stability, financial capability and long-term security. Do not impose fixed outcomes or language that removes the discretion granted by the Will or trust deed. Evaheld’s trustee guidance template provides structured prompts, while Carroll & O’Dea’s estate-planning analysis explains why trustee discretion must not be fettered.

What should a letter of wishes tell guardians of minor children?

Record values, routines, education preferences, culture, faith, sibling and extended-family relationships, health and learning needs, emotional supports, pets and the people who should remain in the child’s life. Keep the formal guardian appointment in the Will and recognise that future decisions must respond to the child’s best interests and circumstances. Evaheld’s family readiness checklist helps organise the wider care context, while The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance lists guardian and child-raising instructions as a common use.

Should funeral wishes be included in a letter of wishes?

You may refer to funeral preferences, but keep a dedicated and easily accessible funeral plan because the Will and supporting estate papers may be read after arrangements have begun. Evaheld’s funeral wishes guide provides the full planning structure, while Willed’s letter of wishes guidance explains how the document can supplement a Will with personal context.

Should I put passwords and digital-account details in my letter of wishes?

Do not place live passwords, recovery codes, PINs or full security answers in a document that may be copied or circulated. Instead, identify the authorised digital record, password manager or access process. Evaheld’s digital legacy directory provides a safer structure, while the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s password-manager guidance explains secure credential storage.

How often should I update a letter of wishes, and where should I keep it?

Review it at least annually and after a new Will, birth, death, separation, marriage, major gift, changed executor or guardian, new trust, business change or significant family conflict. Date every version, remove superseded copies and tell the executor or solicitor where the current document is stored. Evaheld’s legacy contact settings checklist supports the access review, while The Estate Planning Centre’s guidance notes that a letter of wishes can be updated more flexibly than a formal Will.

Letter of wishes next steps for a clearer executor handover

Confirm that the Will and formal appointments are current. Write the disclaimer. Name the intended readers. Complete the first-72-hours actions and adviser map. Then add only the personal context that helps each decision-maker understand the purpose behind the formal plan.

The goal is not to control every future decision. It is to give trusted people enough context to act carefully, consistently and humanely without mistaking personal guidance for binding law.

For a broader practical approach to organising these records and instructions, see our digital legacy guide.

For a practical next step, explore statement of wishes.

For a practical next step, explore goodbye letter.

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It may explain sentimental items, family circumstances, guardianship values, trustee priorities, funeral preferences and practical information. Evaheld’s online Will guide explains what belongs in the formal Will, while The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance explains its supporting role. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is a letter of wishes legally binding?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Generally no. It expresses guidance and intention but does not override a Will, trust deed or other binding instrument. Executors and trustees may consider it but must act within their legal powers and duties. Evaheld’s letter of wishes guide keeps the distinction clear, while Carroll & O’Dea’s legal guidance on letters of wishes warns against directive language or fettering trustee discretion. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What should I include in a letter of wishes?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Include the document’s purpose and status, who should read it, executor priorities, adviser and document locations, family context, trustee considerations, guardian values, dependant and pet care, sentimental-item wishes, funeral preferences, digital-record locations, business context and review details. Evaheld’s executor handover pack can hold the wider practical record, while The Art of Estate Planning’s letter of wishes workbook overview shows the breadth of useful prompts. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can I use a letter of wishes to explain unequal gifts or leaving someone out?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" You can provide calm factual context, but this is one of the highest-risk uses of the document. Avoid insults, accusations and unnecessary private detail, and obtain legal advice before including reasons that may later affect a dispute. Evaheld’s estate-planning lawyer preparation guide can help organise the facts, while Armstrong Legal’s NSW letter of wishes guidance explains its possible evidentiary role. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can a letter of wishes decide who receives jewellery, photographs or heirlooms?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" It can record a preference and the story behind an item, but it may not legally transfer ownership. Valuable or disputed property should be dealt with through the Will or another legally effective arrangement, and the wording should align with any personal-chattels clause. Evaheld’s heirloom planning guide helps document the item and story, while JB Solicitors’ statement of wishes guidance explains the document’s informal supporting role. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What should I write to the trustees of a testamentary trust?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Explain the purposes and factors you hope they consider, such as health, education, disability support, housing stability, financial capability and long-term security. Do not impose fixed outcomes or language that removes the discretion granted by the Will or trust deed. Evaheld’s trustee guidance template provides structured prompts, while Carroll & O’Dea’s estate-planning analysis explains why trustee discretion must not be fettered. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What should a letter of wishes tell guardians of minor children?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Record values, routines, education preferences, culture, faith, sibling and extended-family relationships, health and learning needs, emotional supports, pets and the people who should remain in the child’s life. Keep the formal guardian appointment in the Will and recognise that future decisions must respond to the child’s best interests and circumstances. Evaheld’s family readiness checklist helps organise the wider care context, while The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance lists guardian and child-raising instructions as a common use. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Should funeral wishes be included in a letter of wishes?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" You may refer to funeral preferences, but keep a dedicated and easily accessible funeral plan because the Will and supporting estate papers may be read after arrangements have begun. Evaheld’s funeral wishes guide provides the full planning structure, while Willed’s letter of wishes guidance explains how the document can supplement a Will with personal context. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Should I put passwords and digital-account details in my letter of wishes?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Do not place live passwords, recovery codes, PINs or full security answers in a document that may be copied or circulated. Instead, identify the authorised digital record, password manager or access process. Evaheld’s digital legacy directory provides a safer structure, while the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s password-manager guidance explains secure credential storage. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How often should I update a letter of wishes, and where should I keep it?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Review it at least annually and after a new Will, birth, death, separation, marriage, major gift, changed executor or guardian, new trust, business change or significant family conflict. Date every version, remove superseded copies and tell the executor or solicitor where the current document is stored. Evaheld’s legacy contact settings checklist supports the access review, while The Estate Planning Centre’s guidance notes that a letter of wishes can be updated more flexibly than a formal Will. \"}}]},{\"@type\":\"HowTo\",\"@id\":\"https://evaheld.com/blog/side-note-to-my-will-letter-of-wishes-template#howto\",\"name\":\"How to organise the estate-planning information described in Free Letter of Wishes Template for Your Family and Executor\",\"description\":\"Use Charli to personalise your free Evaheld Legacy Vault and organise the current legal documents, executor or trustee notes, asset information, adviser contacts, trusted people and questions requiring professional advice relevant to Free Letter of Wishes Template for Your Family and Executor.\",\"step\":[{\"@type\":\"HowToStep\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Identify the relevant documents and decisions\",\"text\":\"Tell Charli what you want to achieve using Free Letter of Wishes Template for Your Family and Executor, who is involved, what information already exists and which decisions or questions still need attention.\"},{\"@type\":\"HowToStep\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Create your free estate-planning vault\",\"text\":\"Create a free Evaheld account and save a personalised vault structure for current legal documents, executor or trustee notes, asset information, adviser contacts, trusted people and questions requiring professional advice.\"},{\"@type\":\"HowToStep\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Organise records for trusted people and advisers\",\"text\":\"Complete the most useful records first, choose appropriate access for trusted people and review the information whenever documents, contacts, wishes or circumstances change.\"}]}]} Last Updated: September 19, 2026 A side note to your Will is usually prepared as a letter of wishes : a private, plain-English companion that gives executors, trustees, guardians and family the context a formal Will cannot easily carry. It can explain the reasons behind sensitive decisions, identify immediate priorities, describe how you hope trustees use their discretion, preserve guardian and dependent-care guidance, record sentimental-item preferences and point decision-makers towards the records they will need. A useful letter of wishes is deliberately non-binding. It supports the legal documents without trying to amend them. It explains purpose and priorities without ordering an executor or trustee to act outside the powers in the Will or trust deed. It is clear enough to reduce uncertainty, but flexible enough to remain useful as family circumstances, prices, services and beneficiary needs change. The full working document below goes far beyond a short side note. It includes a complete 20-section letter of wishes template covering document status, access, the executor’s first actions, advisers and records, family communication, unequal provision, trustees, guardians, adult dependents, personal effects, funeral wishes, pets, digital records, business continuity, property, charitable wishes, family history, private messages and version control. It belongs beside—not inside—your emergency binder , funeral wishes , digital legacy directory and goodbye letter . Those records solve different problems and may need different recipients or delivery timing. What the strongest letter of wishes resources cover The leading Australian resources agree that a letter of wishes is a supporting document rather than a second Will. Willed’s letter of wishes guidance explains its role in giving executors context, recording reasons for distributions or exclusions and supplementing a Will without contradicting it. The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance broadens the practical coverage to guardian instructions, organ donation, digital assets, pet care, funeral preferences, people to notify and trusted advisers. It also confirms that a letter of wishes does not override the Will. Carroll & O’Dea’s legal analysis of letters of wishes adds the most important drafting safeguards: address the correct decision-maker, mark the document private and confidential, state that it is unenforceable, avoid directive language and do not fetter trustee discretion. The complete Evaheld template includes all of that, then adds role-specific access, first-72-hours priorities, a document and adviser map, safe language for exclusions and unequal support, disability and adult-dependent guidance, conflict-sensitive family communication, business and property continuity, digital-security boundaries, separate emotional messages and full version control. What a letter of wishes can do—and what it cannot do A letter of wishes can explain the human purpose behind your estate plan. It can say why one beneficiary received substantial help during your lifetime, why a testamentary trust was chosen, which personal items carry family meaning, how you hope guardians preserve a child’s relationships and culture, or what factors trustees should consider when balancing present support with long-term security. It cannot change the legal distribution in your Will. It cannot create a new executor, guardian, trust, beneficiary, gift or condition. It cannot remove a trustee’s discretion where the Will or trust deed grants that discretion. It cannot make an informal wish more legally powerful than the formal instrument. Use an express disclaimer near the beginning: This letter records my personal wishes and explanations. It is not intended to be a Will, codicil, trust instrument or other legally binding document. It does not amend or override my Will, trust deed, beneficiary nominations, powers of attorney, guardianship appointments or any other formal document. JB Solicitors’ statement of wishes guidance similarly describes the document as a confidential supporting guide for executors. For any issue affecting ownership, trustee powers, tax, superannuation, guardianship or a likely estate dispute, obtain current legal advice. Create your free secure letter of wishes in Evaheld now, beginning with the disclaimer, current Will details and the people who should receive each section. How to organise the letter for executors, trustees, guardians and family A letter addressed only “To my family” may not give each decision-maker the information relevant to their role. A stronger structure uses a short cover page and clearly labelled sections. Executor section: immediate priorities, people to notify, document locations, advisers, property and family communication. Trustee section: principles and factors to consider when exercising discretion. Guardian section: children’s values, routines, culture, health, learning, relationships and emotional safety. Dependent-care section: adult dependents, disability supports, ageing relatives and pets. Family section: sentimental items, explanations and personal context appropriate for wider sharing. Private appendices: sensitive explanations or individual messages that should not be given to every recipient. Role-based sections also make updates safer. A changed pet medication should not require redistributing a private explanation about unequal inheritances. A new trustee should not automatically receive a child’s personal letter. Evaheld’s Rooms and selective sharing guidance can keep those audiences separate. How to explain unequal gifts, exclusions and lifetime support safely This is one of the highest-risk parts of the document. A calm explanation may help an executor understand the estate plan. An angry narrative may create new conflict, disclose private information or become material in a dispute. Keep the wording factual and proportionate. Useful context may include substantial lifetime gifts, disability-related needs, financial dependency, caregiving contributions, prior property transfers, family-business succession, obligations to a current or former partner, or a beneficiary’s existing independent provision. A safer structure is to identify the decision neutrally, state the relevant chronology or practical context, confirm that the binding outcome is contained in the Will or trust, avoid criticism that is not necessary to explain the decision, and record the solicitor or adviser who holds the supporting file. For example: During my lifetime I contributed substantially towards Alex’s home purchase. My estate plan also provides additional protected support for Jordan because of ongoing disability-related needs. The binding distribution is contained in my Will. This paragraph records the context only. Armstrong Legal’s NSW letter of wishes guidance explains that the document may record reasons for limiting or excluding provision. That possible evidentiary role makes professional review especially important. How to guide trustees without removing their discretion Where a Will establishes a testamentary trust, the trustee may need guidance about the purpose of the trust and the factors you considered important. The letter should help the trustee exercise discretion, not replace that discretion with a private rulebook. Write in terms such as “I hope”, “I would like the trustees to consider”, “factors that mattered to me include” and “subject to the trust deed, current law and the beneficiary’s circumstances”. Avoid “must”, “shall”, “only if” or threats of consequences where the legal instrument does not impose them. Useful trustee considerations may include health, therapy, disability and accessibility needs; education and training; safe housing; financial capability; addiction, exploitation or coercive-control risks; the beneficiary’s other resources; and the balance between present quality of life and long-term preservation. The trustee remains responsible for applying the governing document and legal duties. The letter should acknowledge that circumstances may change in ways you could not predict. Guardian guidance that protects values without trying to control childhood A guardian needs more than a list of schools and activities. They need to understand what makes the child feel safe, which relationships matter, how culture and family identity are expressed, and which routines or supports are essential rather than optional. Record preferences, not impossible guarantees. Future guardians must respond to the child’s best interests, finances, health, location and changing needs. “Please prioritise continuity at the current school if it remains safe and practical” is more useful than “the children must never change schools.” Include attachment figures, siblings, grandparents and chosen family; schooling and learning support; culture, language and faith; health conditions and current clinicians; comfort objects, pets and sensory needs; technology, sport and friendships; and what helps the child during grief or change. Keep the formal guardian appointment in the Will. The letter provides context for the legally appointed person. Evaheld’s family readiness checklist can connect the guardian section with the child’s health, school, contact and emergency records. Complete letter of wishes template for executors, trustees and guardians Replace every grey guidance box with your own wording. Remove sections that do not apply. Keep the final document dated, versioned and consistent with the current Will, trust deeds and appointment documents. The copy given to each recipient may contain only the sections relevant to their role. Section 1: Document identity, status and legal boundary 1.1 Who created this letter of wishes, and when? Add your full legal name, preferred name, address, date prepared, version number and the date of the Will or trust documents this letter supports. 1.2 What is the purpose of this document? Explain that it gives personal, practical and values-based guidance to the named executors, trustees, guardians and family. 1.3 What non-binding disclaimer applies? State that it is not a Will, codicil, trust instrument or binding direction and does not override any formal document. 1.4 Which earlier letters does this version replace? List earlier dates and locations, and state that they should be marked superseded or destroyed after the current version is confirmed. Section 2: Intended readers, privacy and access timing 2.1 Who should read the complete letter? Name the executor, substitute executor, trustee, solicitor or other person who may see the whole document. 2.2 Which people should receive only selected sections? Match each guardian, family member, business contact or adviser to the sections relevant to their role. 2.3 When should access be given? State whether access is immediate, after death, after the executor accepts the role, during incapacity under a separate authority, or only after professional advice. 2.4 Which sections are private and confidential? Identify sensitive explanations, personal messages or family information that should not be circulated beyond named people. Section 3: Will, trusts and formal estate documents 3.1 Where is the original Will? Name the solicitor, safe-custody service or exact physical location. Include the Will date and contact details. 3.2 What other formal documents exist? List trust deeds, company constitutions, shareholder agreements, binding nominations, powers of attorney, guardianship documents and relevant succession agreements. 3.3 Which document controls if there is an inconsistency? Confirm that the applicable formal legal document prevails and professional advice should be obtained before relying on this letter. Section 4: Executor’s first 72 hours 4.1 Who should be contacted first? List immediate family, chosen family, solicitor, funeral contact, business contact, pet carer and any cultural or faith leader in priority order. 4.2 What property or dependent risks require immediate action? Include pets, livestock, children, vulnerable adults, vacant property, perishable stock, business operations, security, vehicles and urgent bills. 4.3 Which dedicated plans should be opened immediately? Point to funeral wishes, the emergency binder, pet care guide, business continuity plan and digital legacy directory rather than repeating them here. Section 5: Adviser and document map 5.1 Who are the key professional advisers? Add solicitor, accountant, financial adviser, broker, banker, business adviser, property manager and insurance contacts, with the reason each person matters. 5.2 Where are financial, tax and ownership records? Identify the record system, file location, years covered and adviser who can confirm what must be retained. 5.3 Which records should not be destroyed? List original certificates, ownership records, trust documents, tax records, valuations, loan documents, business agreements and family-history originals. The Australian Taxation Office’s record-keeping information can help the executor or adviser determine which tax records may still be required. Section 6: Family communication and conflict management 6.1 Who should communicate with the wider family? Name one primary communicator and a backup. State how often updates should be provided and which details should remain confidential. 6.2 Are there safety, estrangement or coercion concerns? Record only necessary facts, contact restrictions, safe communication methods and the adviser who holds fuller information. 6.3 What process may reduce conflict? Suggest separate updates, a family meeting, mediation, written questions, independent advice or another process without imposing an unlawful condition. Section 7: Context behind unequal provision or exclusions 7.1 Which estate decisions may surprise someone? Identify the decision neutrally and confirm that the legally binding outcome is contained in the Will or trust. 7.2 What factual context explains the decision? Record relevant lifetime gifts, prior property transfers, disability needs, dependency, caregiving, family-business arrangements or other circumstances without personal attacks. 7.3 Which professional file supports the explanation? Name the solicitor or adviser and file reference. Do not reproduce privileged advice inside a widely shared letter. Section 8: Trustee principles and priorities 8.1 What was the purpose of each trust? Explain the human purpose, such as long-term security, disability support, asset protection, education or flexible support across changing circumstances. 8.2 Which factors do you hope trustees consider? List health, education, housing, capability, dependency, vulnerability, other resources, safety and long-term sustainability as considerations rather than commands. 8.3 Which distributions may require extra care? Note high-risk business ventures, coercive relationships, addiction, bankruptcy, large loans, luxury purchases or early capital access, subject to the trust deed and professional advice. 8.4 What should trustees avoid assuming? State that present circumstances, disability, relationship status, income or capability may change and that the trust deed and current evidence should govern each decision. Section 9: Guardians of minor children 9.1 What values should guide the children’s upbringing? Record values such as safety, kindness, cultural identity, education, faith, creativity, family connection, independence and emotional honesty. 9.2 Which relationships should remain active where safe? Name siblings, grandparents, extended family, chosen family, mentors, friends and community connections. 9.3 What schooling, health and learning information matters? Add school, learning needs, therapies, clinicians, medications, allergies, communication supports and current care-plan locations. 9.4 What routines and comforts help each child? Record sleep, food, sensory needs, comfort objects, pets, activities, family rituals and what helps during grief or change. Section 10: Adult dependents, disability and ageing relatives 10.1 Who depends on ongoing support? Name adult children, relatives with disability, ageing parents or another person who relies on you financially, physically or emotionally. 10.2 Which supports must continue without interruption? List accommodation, support workers, providers, medication, transport, communication, appointments, routines and funding contacts. 10.3 Who understands the person’s preferences and communication? Name trusted family, advocates, case managers or clinicians and explain the role each person plays. 10.4 What must decision-makers not assume? Record the person’s abilities, preferences, supported decision-making needs and rights. Avoid treating disability or age as automatic incapacity. Section 11: Personal effects, heirlooms and family archives 11.1 Which items carry sentimental meaning? Identify the item precisely, its location, preferred recipient, backup recipient and the story behind it. 11.2 Which items may have material value or cause conflict? Flag jewellery, art, collections, vehicles, tools, shares or other property that should be checked against the Will and valued where appropriate. 11.3 Which photographs, recipes or records should be copied? State which originals should be preserved, which people need copies, how private material should be handled and who knows the family history. 11.4 What fair process should apply if several people want the same item? Suggest discussion, alternating choices, copies, valuation, sale or another process, subject to the Will and executor’s duties. Section 12: Funeral, memorial and donation wishes 12.1 Where is the complete funeral plan? Point to the current dedicated funeral wishes document and name the person who holds it. 12.2 Which preferences must be known before arrangements begin? Summarise burial, cremation, donation, cultural or faith requirements, prepaid arrangements and the funeral provider if chosen. 12.3 What are your organ and tissue donation wishes? Record Australian Organ Donor Register status, family members informed and any relevant contact. Recognise that clinical eligibility is determined separately. 12.4 Is body donation arranged? Name the program, registration details, acceptance conditions, contact process and fallback funeral arrangements. DonateLife explains registration on the Australian Organ Donor Register and why family awareness matters. Section 13: Pets, livestock and immediate animal care 13.1 Which animals rely on you? List every pet, livestock animal or other animal, with identification and current location. 13.2 Who is the immediate and long-term carer? Name the preferred and backup carers, confirm their agreement and point to any formal funding or ownership arrangements. 13.3 Where are the detailed care instructions? Point to the current pet care guide , veterinarian, medication list, food, carrier and insurance records. Section 14: Digital assets, accounts and data 14.1 Where is the authorised digital asset directory? Identify the secure directory containing devices, accounts, cloud storage, social media, domains, subscriptions and digital property. 14.2 Where are credentials and recovery methods stored? Name the password manager, protected record or professional custodian. Do not write live passwords or recovery codes here. 14.3 Which accounts should be preserved, memorialised, transferred or closed? Summarise the high-level wishes and point to platform-specific instructions and legal authority. 14.4 Which files or communications are private? State what should not be published or circulated and who may make decisions about sensitive data. The Australian Cyber Security Centre recommends keeping account credentials in a reputable password manager rather than an unsecured letter. Section 15: Business, company and professional continuity 15.1 Which businesses, companies or professional roles require action? List entities, ABNs or ACNs, your role, co-owners, key employees and the adviser who holds the formal succession documents. 15.2 What must happen during the first business week? Identify payroll, banking, client communication, insurance, licences, stock, premises, delegated authority and critical contracts. 15.3 Where are binding ownership and control instructions? Point to shareholder, partnership, buy-sell, trust, constitution and succession documents. Do not attempt to transfer control through this letter. 15.4 What human context should successors understand? Explain values, key relationships, employee considerations, client promises and why ownership, management and family equality may not be the same. ASIC’s company change information can help authorised advisers identify formal notification requirements. Section 16: Real property, home and household context 16.1 Which properties require immediate management? List homes, investment properties, farms, storage, holiday properties and overseas property, with managers, occupants and security risks. 16.2 Who has keys, access cards or property knowledge? Name the trusted people, property manager, strata contact, insurer and location of the household manual. 16.3 Are there occupants, tenants or family members requiring careful communication? Record lawful arrangements, safety issues, accessibility needs and the professional adviser who should guide the executor. 16.4 Which maintenance or insurance matters cannot wait? List urgent repairs, insurance renewals, mortgage or rates contacts, pools, livestock, alarms and seasonal risks. Section 17: Charitable, cultural and community wishes 17.1 Which charitable or community commitments matter? Name causes, organisations, volunteering roles, recurring donations or community responsibilities and explain why they mattered. 17.2 Where are any binding gifts recorded? Point to the Will, trust or donation arrangement. Do not create a charitable gift through this non-binding section. 17.3 Which cultural, language or faith relationships should be notified? Name leaders, organisations, communities, ceremonies, archives or obligations that should be considered. Section 18: Family history, values and personal context 18.1 Which stories explain the family’s identity? Record migrations, places, businesses, caregiving, community service, traditions and major turning points. 18.2 Which values influenced the estate plan? Explain fairness, responsibility, independence, care, stewardship, opportunity or another value through concrete decisions and stories. 18.3 Which inherited patterns should not continue? Name silence, overwork, financial secrecy, prejudice, coercion or another pattern without turning the section into an accusation. 18.4 Where is the fuller emotional legacy? Point to your ethical will , legacy letters, recordings or family-history archive rather than overloading this executor document. Section 19: Private messages and recipient-specific notes 19.1 Which people have a private message? List the recipient, message title, format, storage location and intended delivery timing. 19.2 Who is responsible for delivery? Name a trusted person and backup, or identify the controlled delivery method. 19.3 May the message be shared with others? State whether it is private, may be shared in full, may be quoted selectively or should be withheld if circumstances have materially changed. Section 20: Storage, review and change history 20.1 Where is the current letter stored? Record the protected digital location, physical original, solicitor copy and person who knows how to retrieve it. 20.2 Who has received or can access it? List each person, their role, the sections available to them, access timing and date shared. 20.3 When should it be reviewed? Review annually and after a new Will, birth, death, separation, marriage, major gift, changed executor or guardian, trust amendment, business change or significant conflict. 20.4 What changed in this version? Record the date, sections changed, superseded copies removed, professional review and people notified. Complete and share your free secure letter of wishes in your Evaheld Legacy Vault for free. Keep the whole document protected, then give each executor, trustee, guardian or family member only the sections they genuinely need. Worked letter of wishes example Private and confidential—to my executors and trustees. This letter records my personal wishes and explanations. It is not legally binding and does not amend or override my Will dated 12 March 2026, the testamentary trusts created by it, my beneficiary nominations or any other formal document. My first priority is that my children and dog are safe before administrative work begins. My sister Mia has agreed to collect the children if needed, and Daniel is the backup. Bella’s full care guide and veterinarian details are stored in my Evaheld vault. My funeral wishes are in a separate document and should be given to Mia and the funeral director immediately. I have made different financial provision for Anna and James. During my lifetime I helped Anna purchase a home. James has ongoing disability-related needs and may require protected support over a longer period. The binding arrangements are contained in my Will. This explanation is provided only to help you understand the context and should not be treated as a new direction. For the trustees, the factors that mattered most to me were safe housing, health and therapy, communication support, education chosen by the beneficiary, protection from exploitation and enough flexibility to respond to changing circumstances. I do not intend this letter to restrict the discretion granted by the trust. For the children’s guardian, please keep them connected to both sides of the family where those relationships remain safe and supportive. Continuity at school matters, but their wellbeing matters more. They should not be required to preserve every family tradition or remain in one place if their needs change. Mum’s gold bracelet is in the blue jewellery box. I hope Anna receives it because she knows its history. If the Will or the executor’s legal duties require a different outcome, the formal documents must prevail. Please scan the family photographs before distributing the original albums so both children can retain the shared history. The current version of this letter and all role-specific sections are stored in Evaheld. My solicitor holds the Will and a copy of this letter. Please mark every earlier letter superseded. Letter of wishes mistakes that create legal or family risk Do not use the letter to change the Will, create a new gift or appoint a new legal decision-maker. Do not order a trustee to act contrary to the trust deed. Do not write accusations, insults or sensitive family history that is unnecessary to explain the estate plan. Do not put passwords, PINs, recovery codes or full identity details in a document that may be copied. Do not describe valuable items vaguely. Do not leave conflicting versions in different folders. Do not assume the executor will find an unlabelled file after death. Do not put time-critical funeral information only inside documents that may be opened after arrangements begin. Do not duplicate the full pet, business, household and digital plans; point to the current dedicated records. Most importantly, do not assume a comprehensive template removes the need for advice. Complex exclusions, trusts, blended families, foreign assets, business succession, vulnerable beneficiaries and family provision risks need professional review. Evaheld’s estate-planning lawyer preparation guide can help organise the questions and supporting records before the appointment. How to store, share and update a letter of wishes Keep the current letter close to the Will or with the solicitor who holds it, but do not attach it physically in a way that could create confusion about whether it forms part of the Will. Ask your solicitor how they prefer it labelled and stored. Maintain one current digital version with a visible date and version number. Keep role-specific copies or controlled access for guardians, trustees, business contacts and family. Mark every old copy as superseded and remove outdated links. Review the document after any event that changes the formal estate plan or the factual guidance behind it. This includes a new Will, major lifetime gift, changed family relationship, new dependent, trust amendment, changed trustee, business sale, relocation or changed care arrangements. Evaheld’s legacy contact settings checklist can help confirm that the right people still have the right level of access. Why create and share a letter of wishes in Evaheld A letter of wishes changes more often than a Will. Children grow, guardians move, pets age, business contacts change, lifetime gifts alter the context and trustees need current—not historical—information. Evaheld gives the document one protected home beside the supporting records while allowing each audience to receive only what they need. The executor can see the full handover. A guardian can receive the child-care section. A pet carer can receive the pet plan. Private family explanations can remain restricted. The letter can also sit beside the current Will location, executor handover pack , digital directory, family messages and adviser contacts, creating one coherent path without turning every record into one enormous document. Start your free secure letter of wishes today. Complete the disclaimer, executor priorities and document map first, then add the trustee, guardian and family sections that would remove the most uncertainty. Letter of wishes FAQs What is a letter of wishes in Australia? A letter of wishes is a private, usually non-binding document that sits beside a Will or trust and gives executors, trustees, guardians or family plain-language guidance and context. It may explain sentimental items, family circumstances, guardianship values, trustee priorities, funeral preferences and practical information. Evaheld’s online Will guide explains what belongs in the formal Will, while The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance explains its supporting role. Is a letter of wishes legally binding? Generally no. It expresses guidance and intention but does not override a Will, trust deed or other binding instrument. Executors and trustees may consider it but must act within their legal powers and duties. Evaheld’s letter of wishes guide keeps the distinction clear, while Carroll & O’Dea’s legal guidance on letters of wishes warns against directive language or fettering trustee discretion. What should I include in a letter of wishes? Include the document’s purpose and status, who should read it, executor priorities, adviser and document locations, family context, trustee considerations, guardian values, dependant and pet care, sentimental-item wishes, funeral preferences, digital-record locations, business context and review details. Evaheld’s executor handover pack can hold the wider practical record, while The Art of Estate Planning’s letter of wishes workbook overview shows the breadth of useful prompts. Can I use a letter of wishes to explain unequal gifts or leaving someone out? You can provide calm factual context, but this is one of the highest-risk uses of the document. Avoid insults, accusations and unnecessary private detail, and obtain legal advice before including reasons that may later affect a dispute. Evaheld’s estate-planning lawyer preparation guide can help organise the facts, while Armstrong Legal’s NSW letter of wishes guidance explains its possible evidentiary role. Can a letter of wishes decide who receives jewellery, photographs or heirlooms? It can record a preference and the story behind an item, but it may not legally transfer ownership. Valuable or disputed property should be dealt with through the Will or another legally effective arrangement, and the wording should align with any personal-chattels clause. Evaheld’s heirloom planning guide helps document the item and story, while JB Solicitors’ statement of wishes guidance explains the document’s informal supporting role. What should I write to the trustees of a testamentary trust? Explain the purposes and factors you hope they consider, such as health, education, disability support, housing stability, financial capability and long-term security. Do not impose fixed outcomes or language that removes the discretion granted by the Will or trust deed. Evaheld’s trustee guidance template provides structured prompts, while Carroll & O’Dea’s estate-planning analysis explains why trustee discretion must not be fettered. What should a letter of wishes tell guardians of minor children? Record values, routines, education preferences, culture, faith, sibling and extended-family relationships, health and learning needs, emotional supports, pets and the people who should remain in the child’s life. Keep the formal guardian appointment in the Will and recognise that future decisions must respond to the child’s best interests and circumstances. Evaheld’s family readiness checklist helps organise the wider care context, while The Estate Planning Centre’s letter of wishes guidance lists guardian and child-raising instructions as a common use. Should funeral wishes be included in a letter of wishes? You may refer to funeral preferences, but keep a dedicated and easily accessible funeral plan because the Will and supporting estate papers may be read after arrangements have begun. Evaheld’s funeral wishes guide provides the full planning structure, while Willed’s letter of wishes guidance explains how the document can supplement a Will with personal context. Should I put passwords and digital-account details in my letter of wishes? Do not place live passwords, recovery codes, PINs or full security answers in a document that may be copied or circulated. Instead, identify the authorised digital record, password manager or access process. Evaheld’s digital legacy directory provides a safer structure, while the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s password-manager guidance explains secure credential storage. How often should I update a letter of wishes, and where should I keep it? Review it at least annually and after a new Will, birth, death, separation, marriage, major gift, changed executor or guardian, new trust, business change or significant family conflict. Date every version, remove superseded copies and tell the executor or solicitor where the current document is stored. Evaheld’s legacy contact settings checklist supports the access review, while The Estate Planning Centre’s guidance notes that a letter of wishes can be updated more flexibly than a formal Will. Letter of wishes next steps for a clearer executor handover Confirm that the Will and formal appointments are current. Write the disclaimer. Name the intended readers. Complete the first-72-hours actions and adviser map. Then add only the personal context that helps each decision-maker understand the purpose behind the formal plan. The goal is not to control every future decision. It is to give trusted people enough context to act carefully, consistently and humanely without mistaking personal guidance for binding law. For a broader practical approach to organising these records and instructions, see our digital legacy guide. For a practical next step, explore statement of wishes . For a practical next step, explore goodbye letter . For a practical next step, explore goodbye letter . 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Access free templates designed to make legacy, care and estate planning clearer and easier to begin.

Explore guided formats for life stories, legacy letters, advance care wishes, funeral preferences, executor information, emergency records and essential family instructions. Each template provides a practical structure you can personalise without facing an empty page or wondering what important information you may have missed.

Explore the complete digital legacy platform to see how completed templates, uploaded documents, recordings and trusted contacts can be stored and organised securely.

Templates are an effective starting point, but they should be reviewed as circumstances change and used alongside qualified legal, financial or healthcare advice where appropriate.

Create your free vault to complete, store and build on your first legacy, care or estate-planning template.

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