Planning for the event of death can understandably cause an individual a considerable amount of distress. However, the anticipation of death is something we must all face. Preparation is essential to minimizing the pressure our loved ones may face in the wake of loss. One of the simplest measures you can take is making a will. This article explores all the reasons to get a will, so you can make the process of death easier for your family.
Peace of Mind
By drafting a will, you can legally protect your spouse, children, and assets. You can also provide exact specifications for how you would like things to be handled after you pass on. Without a will, your family may experience delays or an incredible amount of paperwork during the probate process. Creating a will can also prevent familial disagreements down the road. Your will and testament will provide a clear division of assets. Assets include anything from inherited jewelry to real estate, artwork to money market accounts, and everything in between.
Your will can also ease the grieving process. Bereavement is a difficult stage that is often fraught with confusion and complex decisions. Make the transition easier for your loved ones by simplifying financial matters.
Funeral Arrangements
One of the greatest reasons to get a will is the option to provide information for funeral arrangements. You may have certain wishes regarding burial or cremation that your family can fulfill. Don’t make the mistake of assuming your family members know exactly what to do or what you would have preferred. Especially in terms of spirituality, there may be misconceptions about what to do with your remains or how you would like them to be stored. Without a will to reference, your family will be forced to make the decision on your behalf. It is also possible that those decisions could cause a rift between family members, which is something that no one would wish to leave as his or her legacy.
Legal Costs
Another unfortunate truth to death is the legal costs associated with your assets. The process of creating a will may cost a few hundred dollars, depending on the degree to with your assets are divided. This initial cost is one of the main reasons why people go without a will. However, the court may have to distribute your assets for you without a final testament to prove otherwise. Court involvement will undoubtedly cost money. You can save your family thousands of dollars by choosing an estate executor and writing an in-depth will.
Choosing a Trustee
Assigning someone you trust to be the trustee of your estate is an important decision, especially if you have young children. If you have a young family, there is a good chance that you don’t want your assets to be inherited by your children immediately. If your spouse passed on before you, a will is also essential to designating guardians for your children. A trustee is responsible for making proper investments, paying bills, keeping accounts, and preparing tax returns. If you don’t choose your own representative, the court will appoint one for you.
Conclusion
Regardless of age or the value of your assets, it is important to invest in a legally binding document that protects your family from any unforeseen problems. There are many reasons to get a will, but your loved ones should be a priority in any decision you make. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, so make the smartest decision by starting the estate planning process sooner rather than later. If you have any questions about this article, please contact Legacy Headstones today for additional information.