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APRIL 2022
Make a will for peace of mind
There’s a reason 50 to 60% of Americans don’t have a will. Even the idea of talking with someone about estate planning makes some people uncomfortable. But it’s an important conversation to have. You can learn how to provide for your loved ones after you’re gone. And you can enjoy the emotional benefits of getting your finances in order and knowing that you’re taking care of the ones you love.
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A will puts your mind at ease
Having a will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family. It offers you peace of mind — right now — because it allows you to:
Protect your family from financial hardship
You decide — not a probate court — how to divide your estate. This means, at a very difficult time, your family can have a seamless and peaceful financial transition and avoid long, unnecessary delays as well as attorney and legal fees.
Minimize confusion and conflict
Having a will empowers you to make your wishes clear and helps minimize family clashes over your estate. It also ensures that part, or all, of your estate doesn’t go to someone you never intended to be your beneficiary. Your beneficiary is the person (or persons) you choose to inherit your assets if anything should happen to you.
Choose the right guardian for your children
You can then take the time to think about which relative or friend you’d want to raise your minor children, and then ask them if they’d be willing to take on that responsibility. Once that’s settled, you can designate them in your will, a legally binding document.
Make meaningful gifts and donations
Your personal values and interests can live on through the legacy you leave your favorite organizations. Gifts up to $13,000 are excluded from estate tax, so you’ll also be increasing the value of your estate for your heirs and beneficiaries to enjoy.
When you make a will, you gain the satisfaction of knowing you’ve done the smart, responsible thing for those you love. And that’s something to feel good about.
Source: FindLaw. Top 10 reasons to have a will.
The following resources are available to help you plan and secure your family’s financial future. These resources are confidential and available to you at no extra cost.