Wills: Benefits of Planning Ahead

"By failing to plan, you are preparing to fail." - often attributed to Benjamin Franklin

Writing a Will is a topic that many people put off until it's too late. However, creating a Will is an important step in planning for the future and ensuring that your wishes are carried out after your death. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of planning ahead and writing a Last Will and Testament sooner than later.

Control Over Your Estate

One main benefit of creating a Last Will and Testament is the control it provides over your estate. Without a Will, your assets will be distributed according to state law, which may not align with your wishes. Creating a Will allows you to specify who should inherit your assets, including real estate, money, and personal possessions.

Avoid Family Disputes

Another benefit of having a Will is that it can help prevent family disputes. When there is no will, family members may disagree on how your assets should be distributed, which can lead to legal battles and strained relationships. A well-drafted Will can help avoid these conflicts by clearly outlining your wishes and minimizing the potential for disputes.

Protect Your Children

If you have children, then creating a Will is especially important. A Will allows you to specify who should become the guardian of your children if both parents pass away. This simple, but powerful, part of your Will can provide peace of mind knowing that your children will be taken care of according to your wishes. For parents of young children, this may be even more important than specifying where your assets are distributed at death.

Provide for Charitable Giving

Finally, creating a Will can provide an opportunity to give back to causes that are important to you. You can include provisions in your Will for charitable giving, such as donating a portion of your estate to a favorite charity. This can be a meaningful way to leave a legacy and make a difference in your community. 

“Death is not the end. There remains the litigation over the estate.” – Ambrose Bierce

-Robert L. Myers. May 1, 2023