A Will

Everyone should have a properly executed Will. A Will is a legal document ensuring that, after death, your possessions will be treated according to your instructions. Without a Will, state laws, a court, or a judge may decide how and to whom your property and other personal effects are to be distributed. It is recommended that the Will be prepared by a competent attorney or someone of equivalent expertise.

Keep Your Will Current
You should review your Will every few years. This is good practice since federal and state laws affecting your estate may require your Will to be revised. In addition, if you move to another state or if your family situation changes, such as the birth of a child, death of a beneficiary, etc., your Will might be affected.

Take Steps Now to Protect Your Assets
Upon death, your Will must be probated and your estate administered. This may be a complicated process that may take time. The process may be administered by a competent executor of your choice. You may even include in your Will the names of attorneys and accountants you wish to assist in the execution of this legal procedure. Remember, in the absence of a Will, you run the risk of having your property and personal assets tied up in protracted court proceedings. These delays may cause undue hardships on your beneficiaries.

When you consider everything that is at risk, a Will is a vital part of your prearrangement program, and may be well worth the effort and cost involved.