Drafting a will is a crucial and responsible step that many people delay or avoid altogether. It’s a task that forces us to confront our mortality and make difficult decisions about our assets and loved ones’ future. However, creating a will is not just for the elderly or those with substantial wealth. Keep reading to explore when is the right time to draft a will and why it’s an essential task for people of all ages and circumstances.
When You Have Dependents
One of the most critical times to create a will is when you have dependents, whether they are children, elderly parents, or disabled family members who rely on your support. A will allows you to designate a guardian for your minor children and specify how you want your assets to be distributed to provide for your dependents’ care and well-being in your absence.
After Major Life Events
Life is full of significant events that can trigger the need to create or update a will. These events may include:
- Marriage: When you get married, you’ll want to update your will to include your spouse and potentially make them the primary beneficiary.
- Divorce: After a divorce, you may need to revise your will to remove your former spouse or make adjustments to asset distribution.
- Birth of Children or Grandchildren: The addition of new family members often requires updates to ensure they are included in your estate plan.
- Death of a Spouse or Beneficiary: In the unfortunate event of a loved one’s passing, you may need to update your will to reflect the changes in beneficiaries.
- Acquisition of Significant Assets: If you acquire valuable assets, such as real estate, investments, or businesses, it’s wise to update your will to account for these assets.
When You Reach Legal Age
In most places, the legal age to create a will is 18 or 21. Once you reach this age, it’s essential to consider drafting a will, even if you don’t have significant assets. Having a will in place can ensure that your wishes are followed if something unexpected happens.
When You Have Specific Wishes
Your will allows you to specify how you want your assets to be distributed. If you have particular wishes, such as leaving assets to charities, organizations, or individuals who are not direct heirs, a will is the appropriate legal document to ensure your desires are honored.
Before Facing Health Issues
While it’s never pleasant to think about, health issues can arise unexpectedly. Drafting a will while you are in good health allows you to make decisions without external pressures and ensures that your wishes are documented clearly. It also allows you to appoint someone you trust as your healthcare proxy and provide guidance on your medical care preferences.
Start Planning Today
There’s no better time to start drafting a will than the present. Get started today with Billian Law! We help Marylanders draft comprehensive wills that protect them, their assets, and their loved ones. Contact us today to get started with a free 30-minute consultation.
