Life Milestones: When To Make Your Will

Contrary to popular belief, making a will isn’t just reserved for people who are more advanced in age. If you’re over the age of 18, it’s vital that you’re prepared and have your estates in order by making a will. And if you already have a will, you should be updating it periodically to ensure it properly reflects your needs and wishes.

Why Do I Need A Will?

Having a will is the best way that you can be sure your estate and wishes are handled properly when you die. A will allows, among other things, for you to choose Executors (those who will be in charge of handling your estate), share funeral wishes, select guardians for your children under the age of 19, and choose who should and shouldn’t inherit your money.

When to Consider Making or Updating a Will

You should especially consider making a will around the same time as key life events. Here are a few examples:

#1: Marriage

If you are married, not all of your money may end up going to your spouse. This is something you can specify clearly in a will. If you already have a will before getting married and you fail to update it after marriage, it’s now outdated. You should make an appointment with your attorney and review your will, making adjustments where necessary.

If you have children from a previous relationship or marriage, having a current will can also ensure that they are provided for, should you have a tragic accident. You can ensure that every one of your children—from your current relationship or a past one—gets what you intend to leave them.

#2: Becoming a Parent

As stated above, a will can protect your money and make sure that it goes to your children. Your will should be updated after you have or adopt a child. You should also make sure that you outline who you want to be the legal guardian of your children if they are under the age of 19.

#3: Getting Divorced or Separated

Separating from your spouse or getting a divorce will affect your will. Even if you are only separated from your spouse and in the process of divorce you should update your will. If you were to die before the divorce is finalized and failed to update your will, your money may not go where you’d prefer it to.

Everyone Should Have a Will

Let’s be honest—no one likes to think about what will happen if they were to pass suddenly. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared. Having a current, updated will is the best way for you to ensure your loved ones are taken care of in case something happens to you. Contact Kristin Waters Sullivan today and let us help you through this process. We’ll help you decide what’s best for you, and guide you through every step of the process.