A will is a legal document that sets forth your wishes regarding the distribution of your property and the care of any minor children after your death. If you die without a will, those wishes may not be carried out. Further, your heirs may end up spending additional time, money, and emotional energy to settle your affairs after you're gone. Though no single document will likely resolve every issue that arises after your death, a will—officially known as a last will and testament—can come pretty close.