When planning your estate, you’re likely to focus on major
assets, such as real estate, investments and retirement plans. But it’s also
important to “sweat the small stuff” (your tangible personal property).
Examples include jewelry, antiques and photographs. Your heirs may squabble
over these items, which can lead to emotionally charged disputes and even
litigation. Spelling out every gift of personal property in your will or trust
can be cumbersome. Instead, consider drafting a personal property memorandum to
provide instructions on the distribution of tangible personal property not
listed in your will or trust.