Zappos founder’s family left shocked after mysterious will appears, naming surprise heirs to his $500M estate — how to avoid blindsiding your kin

His next of kin thought Hsieh, who succumbed to injuries following a 2020 house fire, died without a will. His father Richard Hsieh has been acting as his executor.

But this year, out of the blue, a man identifying himself as Kashif Singh claimed to have found a copy of Hsieh’s will in the possession of his deceased grandfather Pir Muhammad. According to Las Vegas-based KTNV, he sent the document to a Las Vegas courtroom. (1)

According to the New York Post, the document names Kashif Singh and Pir Muhammad as heirs and transfers more than $50 million and several Las Vegas properties to unnamed trusts. It also includes a chilling clause: if any family member contests it, they get nothing. (2)

Richard Hsieh’s lawyers have been unable to locate details about Singh and Muhammad, or confirm whether the will is valid.

But while Las Vegas courtroom judge Gloria Sturman described the circumstances as “very odd,” she stressed that doesn’t mean the will is not valid.

Experts say this is a powerful example of why it’s important to make sure your will is up to date and in safe hands — or your loved ones could face confusion, taxes and costly legal battles.

Why it’s important to have a valid will in place

Having a complete, clearly written will isn’t just about protecting assets; it’s about protecting relationships, avoiding expensive disputes and giving your loved ones the peace of mind that they’re carrying out your final wishes as you intended.

If you die intestate (without a will), a probate court — not you — will decide who inherits your assets. This varies according to state law. Typically, it means your property will pass to your spouse, children, or other family members.

As the American Bar Association notes, a proper will can expedite the probate process and will ensure assets go to beneficiaries in keeping with your wishes. It can also minimize estate taxes. (3)

Wills aren’t just for the wealthy. Even if you have a modest estate, it’s worth doing thorough estate planning to head off tax and legal complications upon your death. (4)

What to include in a will

While having a will is important, not all wills are created equal.

To prepare an effective will, consider working with an estate planning attorney, ideally one licensed in your state and verified through the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) or the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC).

They can help you avoid common pitfalls like missing witnesses or improper notarization.

Attorneys can also help you to create living wills, powers of attorney and revocable trusts, which can help simplify things for your loved ones.

A good will should: