Understandably, people get a little uncomfortable around the topic of wills. For starters, wills force you to consider your own mortality, which can be distressing. You don’t like thinking about a world without you in it. Secondly – and this is where people are incorrect – some people assume the process of creating a will is arduous, costly and lengthy.
Let’s address the first point: Yes, making a will may bring up complex emotions, but it can also represent a sober, clear-headed way to view your own legacy. It’s a way for you to accept one of life’s great inevitabilities and make concrete plans for your estate.
Now, the second point: Making a will can be easy, inexpensive and relatively speedy. In this post, let’s review the reasons for creating a will, and discuss how an online will makes the process smooth and straightforward.
Why Create a Will?
There are several reasons to create a will, but let’s explore a few commonly cited benefits:
- Making a will solidifies your wishes. Passing away without a will (called “dying intestate”) means that the government controls how your estate is divided. With a will, you have the final say.
- You can make arrangements for children. If you have children under 18, you should create a will to arrange for guardianship. If you do not name a guardian in a legal will, the government will appoint one – and it may not be your top choice.
- Save your family time and resources. Leaving behind an estate without a will can cost your loved ones dearly, as they may struggle in court to protect their legal and financial interests. Remember, they will be grieving; make the process easier on them by leaving a clear will following strict legal criteria.
- You may leave a legacy in the form of gifts, charitable donations and endowments. If you are passionate about a cause, or have non-family members who’ve relied on you financially (perhaps you helped a young person pay for college tuition), you can continue giving in your will.
You may brush off the idea of making a will – after all, you’re still young, right? But the reality is that tragedies don’t operate on a set timeline. It’s better to hope for the best and prepare for the worst.
It’s Easier Than You Think
The days have passed when making a will meant driving downtown during rush hour to visit a 20th story law firm. Nowadays, you can simply and inexpensively create a virtual will through an online law firm.
Find a reputable, customer-focused law firm that offers online legal services at flat, predetermined rates. To do so, just look for online law firms in your area that have good ratings on Google or Facebook (anywhere between 4.5 and 5 should indicate exceptional service).
To recap, creating a will is as easy as it is important. If you have assets you want to see distributed, wishes you want carried out, or children who require the right guardianship, don’t hesitate to make a will.
