Which document captures the plan for distributing personal property after death?

Which document captures the plan for distributing personal property after death?

• A. Verbal directive
• B. Personal memorandum
• C. Will
• D. Codicil

Answer: (B)

The instrument used to specify who gets tangible, everyday items after death is a personal property memorandum. This separate writing is designed to address specific personal effects—jewelry, heirlooms, keepsakes—without changing the whole will. It’s typically easier to update and can be admitted to probate alongside the will under many jurisdictions’ rules, ensuring those sentimental items go to the intended recipients without wading through the entire testamentary document. A will, by contrast, covers broader asset distributions (including real property) and may require formalities to change; a codicil amends a will, not list personal items separately; a verbal directive isn’t generally enforceable in most probate contexts.

The instrument used to specify who gets tangible, everyday items after death is a personal property memorandum. This separate writing is designed to address specific personal effects—jewelry, heirlooms, keepsakes—without changing the whole will. It’s typically easier to update and can be admitted to probate alongside the will under many jurisdictions’ rules, ensuring those sentimental items go to the intended recipients without wading through the entire testamentary document. A will, by contrast, covers broader asset distributions (including real property) and may require formalities to change; a codicil amends a will, not list personal items separately; a verbal directive isn’t generally enforceable in most probate contexts.