The Importance of a Will

There are many ways we can tell our family we love them.  We can take them on nice trips, do nice things for them, or just be present in their lives.  There is one important way we can show love to our families that many of times gets overlooked.  We need to create a will.

What does a will have to do with telling our family they are loved?  I'm glad you asked.  Having a will in place let's the family know your thoughts and intentions when you are gone.  I've seen many of families torn apart because the parent or spouse did not take the extra effort to outline their wishes in the event of their death.  Plans may have been verbalized when the parent or spouse were living, but there is a strong amnesia that comes over those left behind when there is no will.

Whether you are single, married, or divorced...you need a will.  Even if you don't have "wealth" or big possessions, you need to get a will done.  A will is more than saying who gets what, it outlines your plans for your children, spouse, or your loved ones .  The danger in not creating a will is that you are leaving it up to the government to dispose of your assets and believe me they will do so without any feeling or concern and more than likely not according to your wishes.

Here are a few things to consider when creating a will.

1. Make sure your will is state-specific.  Wills are not governed by federal laws but by state laws.  A will needs to be updated if you move to a different state.

2. Review your will every couple of years to make sure it still reflects your current wealth level, possessions, and wishes.

3. If you are married each member of the couple should do a full draft of the will in one person's name and then mirror it for the spouse.

4. Your will should also include a healthcare power of attorney, living will instructions, and child guardianship. Regarding the healthcare power of attorney, if you're in an accident..who do you trust to make those life-saving decisions on your behalf?  Regarding the living will, it outlines your life-ending wishes.  This takes a huge amount of pressure off of your spouse or relatives.  Regarding the child guardianship, if you have minor children this is a must.  Make sure all of these things are in your will.

5. Make sure you read your will to your family before you pass away so if any issues need to be resolved it can be before you are gone.

Some people solicit the help of an estate lawyer to help in the process.  If you don't have the means at the moment to take that route, you can do it yourself with minimal costs.  Just make sure you are using a legitimate source.

One source that is available is MAMA BEAR LEGAL FORMS.  There you will find state-specific wills you can create that meet your specific needs!

I know this is a somber topic and one many do not like to think about.  Be assured...if you don't think about it and do something about it now someone else will have to later.

Do you want to spare your family the additional anguish on top of their grieving of your passing?  Do you want to give your family the sense of clarity and direction when you are gone?  Show them you love them!!! Create or update your will today!!!

 Question:  What are some other reasons you can think of why a will is important?  Answer below.