It is the one thing you probably don't want to do, but you know
it needs to be done. The idea of preparing your last will and testament
may make you uncomfortable, but it is important to ensure all necessary
arrangements will be handled when you die, so that your family will not
be forced to deal with legal tangles. When you draw out a will, you make
clear how your property and assets should be dispersed, and you let
people know how to take care of burial and funeral ceremonies. In some
ways, a will is viewed as a time saver, and it certainly saves your
loved ones lots of headaches.
If you are not sure how to go about planning your will, the counsel of a reputable lawyer specializing in elder law can properly assist you. Before you make your appointment, here are a few things to consider in order to have a productive experience.
1) Make sure you have all information on your property and assets. Have information on your money accounts and property deeds, and confirm which accounts have beneficiaries assigned. If you wish to make changes regarding your beneficiaries, make sure they correspond to your will.
2) Consider future heirs. If you have grown children and wish to leave something to them and their children, take into consideration the grandchildren that may be born after your passing. Your attorney can assist with provisions that benefit heirs not yet born.
3) Research charities. You may want to leave something behind to a favorite charity, or perhaps offer an endowment to your college or other organization close to your heart. While there is no doubt your donation will be appreciated, there may be some legal hurdles to overcome to make that happen. Find out what is required.
4) Check, and check again. Hopefully you won't expect to make last-minute changes to your will, so take the time to ensure it is written the way you want it. Make sure the right version of your will is read when the time comes - your attorney can advise you on all matters.
When you have a last will and testament spelling out your intentions for your assets, your heirs will have an easier time carrying out your last wishes. Drawing up a will need not be a depressing event, for you can take comfort in knowing that your children and grandchildren are provided for, and that your legacy remains alive.
If you are not sure how to go about planning your will, the counsel of a reputable lawyer specializing in elder law can properly assist you. Before you make your appointment, here are a few things to consider in order to have a productive experience.
1) Make sure you have all information on your property and assets. Have information on your money accounts and property deeds, and confirm which accounts have beneficiaries assigned. If you wish to make changes regarding your beneficiaries, make sure they correspond to your will.
2) Consider future heirs. If you have grown children and wish to leave something to them and their children, take into consideration the grandchildren that may be born after your passing. Your attorney can assist with provisions that benefit heirs not yet born.
3) Research charities. You may want to leave something behind to a favorite charity, or perhaps offer an endowment to your college or other organization close to your heart. While there is no doubt your donation will be appreciated, there may be some legal hurdles to overcome to make that happen. Find out what is required.
4) Check, and check again. Hopefully you won't expect to make last-minute changes to your will, so take the time to ensure it is written the way you want it. Make sure the right version of your will is read when the time comes - your attorney can advise you on all matters.
When you have a last will and testament spelling out your intentions for your assets, your heirs will have an easier time carrying out your last wishes. Drawing up a will need not be a depressing event, for you can take comfort in knowing that your children and grandchildren are provided for, and that your legacy remains alive.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on North Carolina lawyers and Outer Banks lawyers.
No comments:
Post a Comment