Well, if you don’t, there is nothing you will be able to do about it, and you won’t be able to have a say in how your assets will be distributed. You will also leave a whole host of problems behind for your family, who will already be going through a tough time mourning your death. So, in short, the answer is yes – making a Will is really important.
Getting a Will made can give you peace of mind knowing that your loved ones will be looked after when the inevitable happens. It can also help funeral directors organise your service just the way you want as you will be able to leave your wishes behind. But what are the other reasons you should get a Will made? Let us explain…
You Decide Who Looks After Your Children
If your children are under the age of 18, you can decide who legally looks after them when you die. This will also make sure that the Courts don’t need to get involved too. You will have already stated your wishes which will avoid family disputes during what will already be an emotionally challenging time.
It Avoids a Drawn Out Probate Process
You may not realise that all estates have to legally go through the probate process, even if there is a Will in place or not. However, the good news is, a Will speeds up the process and lets the Courts know how you would like your estate divided between your loved ones.
However, if you choose not to have a Will, the Courts will decide how your estate will be distributed, and there is nothing you can do about their decision.
Peace of Mind
Creating a Will is one of the most thoughtful things you can do before you pass away. It tells your family exactly what you want to happen to your estate. But the peace of mind it can bring is one of the reasons why most people get one written. You can enjoy your later life knowing that you have taken care of the most important things before the inevitable happens.
You Can Make a Charitable Donation
If you have supported a certain charity during your life so far, there is nothing saying that you can’t support them even after you are gone. The ability to make a donation also means your legacy will live on and reflect your kind soul. You could even give the money to a close friend or family member with the instruction of setting up a charity in your memory. It is entirely your choice to make.
You Can Disinherit Certain Family Members
Of course, having a Will in place means your family members can receive a piece of your estate. But not many people realise that you also disinherit certain members too. What this means is that you stop individuals who may otherwise benefit if you were to die without having a Will in place.
You may want to do this if you don’t trust certain family members with specific items of your estate. Or if you have concerns about the way your money will be handled.
Tomorrow Is Not Certain
Okay, we know that this one is a little bit of a downer. But it is certainly true. Unwillingness to accept that death happens as part of life is one of the biggest reasons why people die without having a Will in place. And this is a very big thing in the UK because, for some reason death is still considered a taboo subject, unlike other countries where it is actually celebrated.
To avoid unnecessary stress on your family, we strongly advise that you meet with a local funeral director or solicitor who can help you draw up a Will before it is too late. Think of your family and the peace of mind it can bring you.
