As August winds down, so does National Make a Will Month – an important reminder of the significance of having a well-crafted estate plan. While August nears its end, it's never too late to take control of your future and ensure your loved ones are protected. As an estate planning attorney in Rockford, IL, I'm here to shed light on why making a will is crucial and how you can get started.

Why Make a Will?

Creating a will is not just a legal formality; it's a responsible way to secure your family's financial future and give yourself peace of mind. A will allows you to:

Choose Beneficiaries

You can decide who receives your assets, properties, and possessions. This ensures that your loved ones are taken care of according to your wishes.

Appoint Guardianship

If you have minor children, a will allows you to designate a guardian who will take care of them in case of your untimely passing. Without one, the court gets to decide.

Minimize Conflict

A well-drafted will can help prevent disputes among family members by clearly outlining your intentions and minimizing the potential for misunderstandings.

Avoid Intestacy Laws

Without a will, your assets may be distributed according to your state's intestacy laws, which might not align with your wishes. Think about it this way, will a random judge know your personal situation when they decide how to allocate your assets?

Steps to Get Started

While August may be almost over, it's never too late to start the process of creating a will. Here are the steps to guide you:

1. Gather Information

Compile a list of your assets, properties, financial accounts, and any personal items you wish to bequeath. Having this information handy will streamline the process.

2. Choose an Executor

Select a trusted individual to be your executor – the person responsible for administering your estate as per your will.

3. Consult an Attorney

To ensure your will is legally binding and comprehensive, consult an experienced estate planning attorney. They will help you navigate the complexities and create a document that accurately reflects your wishes and personal situation.

4. Consider a Trust

Depending on your circumstances, a trust might be a beneficial addition to your estate plan. Trusts can help with tax planning, avoiding probate, and ensuring your assets are managed according to your preferences.

5. Review and Update

Life changes – marriages, births, deaths – can impact your estate plan. Regularly review and update your will to reflect any changes in your family or financial situation.

Estate Planning Workbook

In the spirit of National Make a Will Month, we're excited to offer you a valuable resource that will kickstart your estate planning journey: our comprehensive Estate Planning Workbook. This workbook is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to begin crafting a solid estate plan. Download your workbook here.

Sum It Up

Even though August's National Make a Will Month is almost over, the importance of creating a will remains ever-present. As an estate planning attorney in Rockford, IL, I encourage you to take proactive steps to protect your loved ones and your legacy. It's never too late to craft a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes. Contact me today to begin the journey toward securing your family's future through thoughtful estate planning. Remember, your peace of mind is just a will away.

Learn More

For expert guidance on estate planning, feel free to reach out to us! We are a small, dedicated estate planning firm in Rockford, IL. Schedule a call with us using this link or email us jayme@cherishlegal.com. Your future and your family's well-being deserve the best protection.

Are you ready to take control?

Follow these steps to get the ball rolling in your court!

Download our Estate Planning Workbook to help you think through some of the questions you will be required to answer
Review our Estate Planning pricing plans to learn more about how we help you plan for your future.
Get started working with us when you are ready to take control of your legacy!

Contact us