What is a Statement of Wishes?

A Statement of Wishes is a more informal document that follows your Will, setting out instructions for your executor to make it easier for them to administer your estate. Unlike your Will, which your executor is legally bound to follow, a Statement of Wishes is not legally binding upon your executors.
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Your Statement of Wishes may include various non-binding directives - these generally relate to funeral requests, guardianship instructions or notes to your beneficiaries that you would like to be conveyed with your gifts.

It can also include a descriptive list of your assets and their locations to assist your executor in administering your estate.  
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While it is not legally binding, a Statement of Wishes provides important guidance to your executor on your final wishes, and how you want them to be carried out.