If You Haven’t Made a Will Yet, This Is Your Sign

August is National Make a Will Month, making it the perfect time to think about one of the most important gifts you can leave your loved ones: a clear plan for the future.

Many people assume that creating a will is something to put off until retirement or later in life. Others believe they don’t have enough assets to need one. Actually, every adult can benefit from having a will, regardless of age, income, or family situation.

A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your property and belongings distributed after your death. It also allows you to name an executor—the person responsible for carrying out your wishes—and, if applicable, designate guardians for minor children.

Without a will, Virginia law determines who inherits your assets, and those decisions may not reflect your personal wishes or your family’s unique circumstances. Having a will can reduce uncertainty, simplify the probate process, and provide peace of mind for the people you care about most.

More Than Money

Your estate includes almost everything you own: items like your home, vehicle, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings, family heirlooms, and even certain digital assets.

A will lets you decide who receives these possessions instead of leaving those decisions to the courts. It can also help minimize disagreements among family members by clearly documenting your wishes.

Getting Started

Creating a will is often simpler and more affordable than people expect.

Start by gathering:

• A list of your major assets
• The names of the people or organizations you want to inherit them
• The person you’d like to serve as your executor
• Guardians for minor children, if applicable

Then choose the approach that best fits your situation:

Use an online will service if your estate is relatively straightforward. Reputable services include Trust & Will, Quicken WillMaker & Trust, and LegalZoom. These tools cost up to $300 for couples and guide you through the process step by step.

Work with an estate planning attorney if you have a blended family, own a business, have significant assets, own property in multiple states, want to create a trust, or prefer to receive personalized legal advice. An attorney can also help ensure your estate plan works together with your beneficiary designations and other legal documents.

To find a qualified attorney, ask friends, your financial advisor, or your accountant for recommendations. You can also use the Virginia State Bar Lawyer Referral Service or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys online directory to find attorneys who specialize in estate planning.

Keep It Current

A will should be reviewed after major life events, including:

• Marriage or divorce
• The birth or adoption of a child or grandchild
• The death of a beneficiary or executor
• Buying or selling a home
• A significant change in your financial situation
• Moving to another state

Even if nothing has changed, estate planning professionals generally recommend reviewing your will every three to five years to ensure it still reflects your wishes and complies with current laws.

Don’t Forget the Conversation

Once your will is complete, tell your executor where to find the original document. Store it in a secure but accessible location, not in a safe deposit box that only you can access.

It’s also helpful to let your loved ones know you’ve created a will and who your executor is. You don’t have to share every detail, but having the conversation now can reduce confusion and stress later.

Take the First Step

Creating a will is one of the most thoughtful acts of planning you can do for yourself and your loved ones.

If you’ve been putting it off, let National Make a Will Month be your reminder to take the first step. Whether you schedule an appointment with an estate planning attorney or complete a simple online will, you’ll gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your wishes have been documented.