A supplementary will made specifically to deal with property located in a jurisdiction other than where the testator's primary will applies. Allows property in each location to be administered according to local laws without multiple probate proceedings.
A second will for property you own in a different state or country. Your main will covers most assets, but the ancillary will handles property in that other location. Simplifies probate by avoiding cross-border complications.
⏱ When you'll encounter this term
- You own property in multiple states or countries
- Holiday home or investment property in another jurisdiction
- International estate planning
- Avoiding probate in multiple locations
- Dealing with different inheritance laws across borders
"I live in Sydney but own a beachhouse in Bali. My lawyer suggested an ancillary will for the Indonesian property to avoid probate complications across two countries."
💡 Did you know?
Without an ancillary will, your executor may need to apply for probate in every jurisdiction where you own property, which can be expensive and time-consuming. An ancillary will streamlines the process.