“I’m too young and I’m not rich.” “I don’t even know how to make a will.” “Won’t it just all go to my spouse?”
It’s easy to assume that you don’t need a will. In fact, 70% of Americans don’t have a one. That doesn’t mean that you don’t need estate planning, though.
Aren’t wills just for the wealthy?
No, estate planning and wills aren’t just for the rich. No matter the size of your estate, something has to happen to it if you pass away. So, who should have a will? Just about everyone over the age of 18.
What goes into a will?
You can have a say in what happens to most things in your life after you pass away by putting them in your will. Here are some things that typically go into a will:
- What will happen to your assets, like your car, house and valuables
- Where your finances will go, including savings accounts and stocks
- Who will get your personal belongings
- A guardian for your children
- Who will take over your business
- Directions for your funeral
Why should I have a will?
A will is how you have a say in what happens to your legacy after you are gone. You can decide where your belongings will go and what will happen to your body.
Especially if you have children, you need to make a plan to care for them if you are gone. You can choose who will be responsible for them and make sure they are safe.
Even if you don’t have kids or strong feelings about what happens to your possessions, creating a will can be hugely beneficial for your family. You have the chance to sort out some things for them while they go through a time of grieving. Your will can help give them direction, closure and avoid potential conflicts.
Consider talking with an estate planning attorney. They will help you understand the best type of estate planning for you and how to make the important decisions that go into it.
