By: Janet Howard

August is Make a Will Month—learn why creating or updating your will is essential for protecting your family, preserving your legacy, and ensuring your wishes are honored.

August is Make a Will Month, a timely reminder of one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and preserve your legacy. Creating a will is not just for the wealthy or the elderly—it’s a critical legal tool for adults of all ages and financial backgrounds. Whether you are starting a family, growing your assets, or planning for retirement, having a will ensures your wishes are respected and your loved ones are cared for when you’re no longer here.

Unfortunately, surveys show that more than 60% of Americans do not have a will. Many believe they are too young to need one, think it’s too expensive, or simply avoid the topic because it feels uncomfortable. But the truth is, without a will, state laws—not you—will determine how your assets are distributed, who cares for your minor children, and how your affairs are handled.

Why August Matters for Estate Planning
Designating August as Make a Will Month helps raise awareness about the importance of estate planning. The goal is to encourage individuals and families to take proactive steps toward securing their future. This month is the perfect opportunity to learn about wills, start the conversation with loved ones, and get your legal documents in order.

Estate planning is not a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process. Life changes such as marriage, divorce, having children, buying property, or starting a business can all affect your estate plan. Make a Will Month serves as an annual reminder to review and update your documents so they reflect your current wishes.

What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
Dying without a will—known as dying intestate—can create unnecessary stress and conflict for your loved ones. In this situation, the state will distribute your assets according to intestacy laws, which may not align with your personal wishes.

Without a will:
– The court decides guardianship for your minor children, which may not match your preference.
– Assets may go to relatives you never intended to benefit—and exclude non-relatives you care about.
– Family disputes are more likely, which can lead to costly legal battles and strained relationships.
– Charitable gifts or special bequests won’t be honored, since there’s no legal record of your intentions.

A well-drafted will ensures your voice is heard, even when you’re not there to speak for yourself.

Key Benefits of Having a Will
1. Control Over Your Assets – You decide who inherits your property, money, and belongings.
2. Protecting Your Children – You can name guardians to care for your minor children if something happens to you.
3. Minimizing Family Disputes – Clear instructions reduce confusion and conflict among loved ones.
4. Supporting Charitable Causes – You can leave gifts to charities and causes that matter to you.
5. Peace of Mind – Knowing your affairs are in order brings comfort to you and your family.

Steps to Create or Update Your Will
If you haven’t made a will—or it’s been years since you last updated it—Make a Will Month is the perfect time to take action. Here’s how to get started:

1. List Your Assets and Debts – Include real estate, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, personal items, and outstanding loans.
2. Choose Your Beneficiaries – Decide who will inherit specific assets or percentages of your estate.
3. Select an Executor – This trusted person will manage your estate, pay debts, and distribute assets according to your wishes.
4. Name Guardians for Minor Children – Choose individuals who share your values and parenting style.
5. Work With an Experienced Estate Planning Attorney – A legal professional ensures your will complies with state laws, is clearly worded, and avoids common mistakes.
6. Store Your Will Safely – Keep the original in a secure location and inform your executor where to find it.

Updating Your Will Is Just as Important
Even if you already have a will, it’s important to review it regularly—ideally every one to three years or after major life events. Updates may be needed if you’ve married, divorced, had children, moved to a new state, or acquired significant assets. Keeping your will current ensures it reflects your most recent wishes and circumstances.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay
Many people put off making a will because they think they have plenty of time. Unfortunately, life is unpredictable. Creating a will now is the best way to protect your family from unnecessary stress, legal costs, and uncertainty.

The process is often faster and more affordable than people expect—and the peace of mind it provides is invaluable.

Take Action This August
Make a Will Month is your opportunity to take charge of your future. By creating or updating your will, you’re giving your loved ones the gift of clarity, security, and peace of mind.

Don’t leave these critical decisions to the courts or burden your family with tough choices during an emotional time. Take the first step today—contact an experienced estate planning attorney to draft or update your will. Protect your family. Protect your legacy. Make August the month you secure your future.

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