Do Not Overlook these Four Things when Writing Your Will

Regardless of your health, age, or income level, having a valid last will and testament is important. As one of the most basic yet often overlooked types of estate planning documents, it details any property, assets, or debts you possess, dictates your final wishes to family members and friends, and helps to avoid potentially costly and contentious probate proceedings. Whether you are taking the first steps in creating a will or making updates to an existing document, the following are four important items you should take care not to overlook.

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According to a 2016 Gallup poll, close to 60 percent of all adults in the United States do not have a valid will in place. Of those who do, it is easy to overlook important updates that should be made, such as when a birth, death, or marriage occurs in your family or when your assets increase as the result of your income, investments, or due to an inheritance. When making an appointment with our estate planning attorney to create or update your will, take time to consider the following:

• Digital assets: You need to be thorough in listing property in your will, including any digital assets you possess. MarketWatch advises specifically providing your executor or another party access to websites, email, social media, and other online accounts.
• Care of minor children: If you are a parent of small children, be sure and include arrangements for their care. Speak to the person you select as guardian, and make sure to provide in your will for the funds they will need.
• Final arrangements: Rather than including funeral arrangements in your will, consider having a separate document attached to it detailing your wishes and make loved ones aware it exists.
• Provide for pets: Petfinder urges animal owners to make provisions for the care of their pet in their will. This includes naming a guardian, and providing funds for feeding, vet bills, and other expenses.

Contact Us Today for Help

Make sure your family members and friends have clear instructions in the event the unexpected occur. Reach out and contact Sabuco, Beck, Hansen, Massino & Pollack, P.C. to request a consultation with our wills and estates attorneys. We can guide you in creating the documents needed in your particular situation, providing you peace of mind in knowing those you care about are protected.