Don’t overlook the importance of a solid will

Your will is important for many reasons, not just so that people you leave behind can receive your possessions. In fact, a will can do everything from helping protect your interests while you’re alive to making sure the right people obtain your assets after you pass away.

It’s true that the primary purpose of a will is to distribute your property after death. However, it can also indicate a number of other provisions that must be met. It also reduces the chances of your loved ones having to go through the probate process, giving you the peace of mind that your assets will be distributed quickly instead of being caught up in a legal battle.

One of the reasons to have a will that some people overlook is guardianship. You want to know who will care for your children or pets after you pass away, and you can assign people to do that in your will. In the case that they don’t want to take over those responsibilities, you can include secondary guardians, too. This allows you to guarantee that someone will always be there to care for minors and those who can’t care for themselves.

If you haven’t started making an estate plan, it’s a good idea to talk to your attorney and bring up the need for a will. Whether you’re young and just starting a family or are reaching your golden years, having a will and estate plan in place is necessary to protect yourself, your interests and those you have to leave behind after your death.