What is NOT a purpose of a will?

A will serves several essential functions in planning for the distribution of a person's estate upon their death. One primary purpose of a will is to designate beneficiaries of the estate, ensuring that the deceased's assets are transferred to the intended individuals or organizations. Additionally, it allows the testator to outline how their property will be distributed among heirs, providing clarity and legal standing to their wishes. Wills can also specify funeral arrangements, giving the testator an opportunity to express their desires for posthumous care and services.

However, determining who will pay estate taxes is not a direct purpose of a will. Estate taxes are generally derived from the overall value of the estate, and their payment is typically governed by laws and regulations rather than being specified in a will. Therefore, while a will can outline how assets are distributed, the responsibility for estate taxes falls on the estate itself and is managed according to jurisdictional laws, rather than being a decision made explicitly within the will's content. This distinction is key in understanding the precise functions of a will in estate planning.