When most people think about writing a will, their minds go straight to money, property, and maybe life insurance. But the truth is, it’s often the sentimental assets—the family quilt, the fishing rods, the wedding ring, or the box of old letters—that spark the deepest emotions and, sometimes, the fiercest disputes.
At Terry Law Firm, P.S., we’ve seen how planning for these personal treasures can make all the difference in keeping families close after a loss.
Why the “little things” matter so much
It’s funny how the smallest items can carry the biggest weight. A client once told me her father’s pocketknife was “just a tool,” but when it wasn’t mentioned in his will, three siblings fought over it for months. The dollar value wasn’t the issue—it was the memories tied to it.
That’s why sentimental assets deserve a real place in your estate plan. They may not show up on a balance sheet, but they’re priceless in the eyes of your loved ones.
Putting intentions in writing
Legally, you can include directions for sentimental items directly in your will, but many families in Washington also use a personal property memorandum. This document works alongside your will and allows you to make detailed notes about who should receive specific belongings. It’s flexible too—you can update it without rewriting the entire will.
At Terry Law Firm, P.S., we often recommend this approach because it makes things clear while giving you the freedom to adjust as life changes.
Preventing family disputes
Sentimental assets are often the spark for disagreements because they can’t be divided the way money can. You can’t split grandma’s rocking chair in half. But you can prevent conflict by being thoughtful now. Some families choose to talk with loved ones about their wishes before finalizing the plan. It’s not always an easy conversation, but it can save a lot of heartache later.
Don’t forget the digital side
In 2025, sentimental assets aren’t always physical. Photo libraries stored online, social media accounts, or even voice recordings can carry just as much meaning as a box of old letters. That’s why it’s important to include digital assets in your planning, making sure the right people have access and the law supports your wishes.
At Terry Law Firm, P.S., we help clients address both the tangible and digital sides of legacy. Leaving a clear map for sentimental assets ensures those memories don’t get lost in the shuffle.
Making your wishes real
Here are a few questions worth asking yourself as you think about including sentimental assets in your will:
- Are there items that carry strong emotional value in your family?
- Do your loved ones know the stories behind these items?
- Have you written down, clearly, who should receive what?
Even small steps—like listing out meaningful possessions and explaining their importance—can guide your family when the time comes.
More than just legal documents
Estate planning is often thought of as a dry legal process, but in truth, it’s about storytelling. It’s about making sure the pieces of your life—both big and small—are passed down in a way that reflects your values. At Terry Law Firm, P.S., we see sentimental assets as part of that story, and we encourage clients to give them the attention they deserve.
A thoughtful gift for your family
Including sentimental assets in your will is about more than keeping the peace. It’s a final act of love—making sure the items that mean the most end up in the hands of the people who will treasure them. Whether it’s your grandmother’s ring, your dad’s guitar, or your own journal, these pieces carry forward the memory of who you are.
If you’re ready to make sure your estate plan covers not just the financial side, but also the personal side of your legacy, Terry Law Firm, P.S. can help. For more information, visit www.terrylawfirm.com.
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