What is an amendment to a will?

• A. Ademption by extinction
• B. Codicil
• C. Ademption by satisfaction
• D. Valid trust purpose

Answer: (B)

A codicil is an amendment to a will. It lets you modify, add, or revoke provisions without drafting a whole new will. For a codicil to be valid, it must follow the same formalities as the original will—typically written, signed, dated, and witnessed. When it’s properly executed, the codicil changes only the parts it touches while the rest of the will remains in effect. This is commonly used to reflect changes in relationships, assets, or layout of beneficiaries without rewriting the entire document.

Ademption by extinction involves a bequest failing because the specific asset isn’t in the estate. Ademption by satisfaction occurs when the testator gives a beneficiary the asset before death, treating the gift as satisfied. A valid trust purpose is about creating a trust, not amending a will.