Personal property list in MA estate plan

The new Massachusetts Probate Code does recognize and allow a separate writing that identifies and devises tangible, personal property not otherwise disposed of in a will.  Section 2-513 of the Code states:

Section 2-513.[Separate Writing Identifying Devise of Certain Types of Tangible Property.]
A will may refer to a written statement or list to dispose of items of tangible personal property not otherwise specifically disposed of by the will, other than money. To be admissible under this section as evidence of the intended disposition, the writing shall be signed by the testator and shall describe the items and the devisees with reasonable certainty. The writing may be referred to as one to be in existence at the time of the testator's death; it may be prepared before or after the execution of the will; it may be altered by the testator after its preparation; and it may be a writing that has no significance apart from its effect on the dispositions made by the will.

This is a handy devise that allows you to dispose of certain property after you die while also allowing you to change your mind while you are still living.  So, for example, without amending your will, you can amend the separate writing and leave your favorite ring to cousin X instead of to cousin Y. However, the writing must be specifically mentioned in your will (even though the list itself can be amended at a later date, as discussed above).  For that reason, you should discuss this matter with a Massachusetts estate planning attorney. For a relatively small fee, you may be able to create an amendment to your will that mentions and incorporates the type of document you have in mind.  Good luck.