It’s easy to put off writing a will. You feel like you have a lot of time to get it done, the legal process can be confusing and you think you’ll be better prepared when you’re closer to the end of your life. These are just three potential reasons, but people can give you nearly an endless list of reasons they haven’t written a will.
What is important, then, is to look at this from the other side. What are some of the reasons that you should write a will? Why is it important to do it today? Here are five of the main ones:
- You do not want to leave anything up to chance when it comes to your kids. A will is a way not just to leave them your assets, but to set up a successful future for them with a guardian.
- No one knows how long they have. Even if you’re young, you could pass away sooner than you think.
- A will allows you to make all of the decisions about what happens to your estate. You don’t have to worry you will leave those choices up to someone else.
- You can help your heirs avoid estate disputes by telling them what you want in advance. It is a kindness that can avert the need for litigation.
- You may find ways to lower the taxes on the estate. For instance, the use of certain types of trusts can direct more of your money to your children and your grandchildren.
There are absolutely more than five reasons to write a will, but these should get you thinking. Make sure you know what steps to take.
