When most people think about a will, they think about money, property, and who gets what after they pass away. But there’s another kind of will that focuses on something just as important -your values, beliefs, and life lessons. This is called an ethical will.
What is an ethical will?
An ethical will (sometimes known also as a “legacy letter”) is a personal document where you share what matters most to you. It’s not a legal document and it doesn’t deal with assets or finances. Instead, it’s a way to pass on your wisdom, experiences, and hopes to the people you care about.
Think of it as a message to your loved ones about who you are and what you’ve learned in life.
What can you include?
There are no strict rules, which is what makes an ethical will so meaningful. You might include:
- Your core values and beliefs
- Life lessons you’ve learned (including mistakes)
- Family stories and traditions
- Messages to children, grandchildren, or friends
- Hopes and advice for the future
- Things that brought you joy or shaped your life
It can be written as a letter, a series of notes, or even recorded as a video or audio message.
It doesn’t have to be written
An ethical will doesn’t have to be a written document. Many people now choose to record their ethical will as a video. This allows your loved ones to see your expressions, hear your voice, and connect with your message in a more personal way. A video can feel more natural for some people, especially if writing is difficult. Whether it’s a simple recording on your phone or a more formal video, what matters most is that your message is clear, sincere, and true to you.
An ethical will is about more than what you leave behind- it’s about what you stand for. It gives you the chance to speak directly to your loved ones in your own words, sharing guidance, gratitude, and meaning.
If you’re thinking about your legacy, consider creating both a legal will and an ethical will. Together, they ensure that both your assets and your values are passed on.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
No. An ethical will is not a legal document and doesn’t replace your formal will. It doesn’t distribute your estate or appoint executors. Instead, it sits alongside your legal documents as a personal expression of your legacy.
That said, many people keep it with their formal will so it can be shared at the appropriate time.
- To pass on wisdom and values, not just wealth
- To explain decisions made in their legal will
- To strengthen family connections across generations
- To ensure their voice is heard after they’re gone
It can also be a powerful exercise for you- helping you reflect on your life and what matters most.
There’s no “right” time. Some people write an ethical will later in life, while others start earlier and update it over time. Major life events- like having children, retiring, or facing illness- often prompt people to begin.
Your ethical will complements your formal estate planning documents. While your legal will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, your ethical will explains the “why” behind your life and choices.
For a complete estate plan, it’s important to have a legally valid will prepared with professional advice. An ethical will adds a personal layer that the law simply can’t capture.
