Let’s face it—writing a will isn’t exactly what most people call “fun.” But unless you want your family to launch a reenactment of a soap opera, it’s a good idea to put one together. And hey, just because it’s serious doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun with it! After all, this is one big way to make an impression. So, here’s how to write your will in a way that’ll make sure you’re remembered—and maybe even get a few laughs along the way.
1. The “Surprise Twist” Clause
We’ve all seen the mystery dramas where the last will and testament includes some totally unexpected twist. Why not keep your family on their toes by leaving an item with a vague message? Consider passing along something utterly random, like your collection of VHS tapes, “to the one who will know what to do with it.” (Spoiler alert: no one will know what to do with it). But everyone will probably pretend they do, and you’ll leave behind a legacy of curiosity.
2. The “You Get the Exotic Cat” Strategy
Let’s say you have a pet that’s a bit…high maintenance. Maybe it’s an exotic bird with a 50-year lifespan or a cat that requires daily grooming. Leave it to your most reluctant relative. They’ll remember you every day as they deal with your pet’s endless demands. Sure, it’s a bit mischievous, but think of it as your pet’s version of an inheritance.
3. Give Everyone a “Job” for Their Inheritance
Ever wish you could attend your own funeral just to see who shows up? While that’s not an option, you can still inject a little fun by assigning “tasks” to family members who want a piece of your inheritance. Your little sister only gets your vintage guitar if she performs one of your favourite songs. Your cousin gets the record collection if he can name three songs on every album. They’ll have fun (hopefully) fulfilling their “quests,” and you’ll be remembered as the eccentric mastermind of a family talent show.
4. Plant a Secret “Treasure Hunt”
If you’re up for one last great prank, plant a ‘secret’ note in your will that sends family members on a treasure hunt for an unspecified reward. Spoiler: it leads to absolutely nothing. But it’ll keep them close and working together—maybe even bonding over the shared experience of trying to interpret your totally random clues.
5. Throw in a “Surprise Beneficiary”
Here’s a fun one: name an unexpected beneficiary in your will, like your neighbor’s goldfish or a squirrel that frequently visits your backyard. They don’t have to receive anything grand, but it’ll leave your family scratching their heads and wondering what other secrets you were hiding.
Funny Examples of Real-Life Wills
If you think these are all just jokes, think again! Here are some of the best “creative” wills from real life:
1. Leona Helmsley and Her Maltese: Helmsley left a $12 million trust fund to her dog, Trouble, while cutting her grandchildren out of her will. Trouble went on to live in comfort, though some might argue she got a lot more than “puppy love.”
2. Charles Vance Millar’s Toronto “Baby Derby”: Millar, a Canadian lawyer, left money in his will to be awarded to the Toronto woman who had the most children in the 10 years following his death.
3. Luis Carlos de Noronha Cabral da Camara’s Random Heirs: This Portuguese aristocrat famously left his fortune to 70 strangers randomly selected from a phone book, which is probably the most surreal surprise of all time.
Finally, Make it Fun, But Don’t Forget the Practical Stuff
At the end of the day, a little humor can make your will-writing experience a lot more enjoyable—and ensure that your family remembers you with a laugh. Just make sure you’ve included the basics so there’s no real mystery around who gets what. And remember, while adding funny twists can lighten things up, clearly outline your serious wishes to avoid actual family drama.
So, Click here to get to talk to a Trust Advisor, or simply call us on 02012715002 today. We are here to help you achieve a well-written will that your loved ones will remember for all the right reasons.
