Make-A-Will Month: Why Every Adult Needs a Will—No Matter Their Age or Stage of Life
August is Make-A-Will Month, a reminder that creating a will is one of the most important—and often most overlooked—steps a person can take to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Many people assume wills are only necessary for retirees, homeowners, or those with significant wealth. Others believe they can wait until later in life to create one. The reality is that every adult over the age of 18 should have a will, regardless of their age, income, or family situation.
A will is not just about money. It is about making sure your wishes are known, your loved ones are protected, and important decisions are made by the people you trust.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will?
When someone dies without a will, they are considered to have died “intestate.” In that situation, state law determines who inherits assets and who has authority to administer the estate.
While Washington and Oregon have laws designed to distribute assets fairly among your family members, those laws do not know your family dynamics, relationships, or personal wishes.
Without a will:
- The court determines who will administer your estate
- Assets are distributed according to state law
- Unmarried partners may receive little or nothing
- Friends, charities, and chosen family members may be excluded
- Family disagreements become more likely
Simply put, the state creates a plan for you—and it may not be the plan you would have chosen.
A Will Gives You a Voice
A will allows you to decide:
- Who receives your assets
- Who serves as your Personal Representative (Executor)
- How personal belongings should be distributed
- Whether charitable organizations should receive gifts
- How certain assets should be managed
For parents of minor children, a will is especially important because it allows them to nominate guardians who would care for their children if something happened to them.
You Don’t Need to Be Wealthy
One of the biggest misconceptions about wills is that they are only for wealthy individuals.
In reality, almost everyone owns something of value:
- Bank accounts
- Vehicles
- Personal possessions
- Family heirlooms
- Digital assets
- Pets
More importantly, almost everyone has people they care about.
A will ensures that the things you own—and the people you love—are protected.
A Will Is the Foundation, Not the Entire Plan
While a will is essential, it is only one part of a comprehensive estate plan.
Many people also benefit from:
- Durable Financial Powers of Attorney
- Health Care Powers of Attorney
- Health Care (Advance) Directives
- Revocable Living Trusts
Together, these documents create a plan that protects both you and your family.
The Best Time Is Now
The perfect time to create a will rarely arrives. Life is busy, and estate planning often falls to the bottom of the to-do list.
Make-A-Will Month is an excellent opportunity to take that first step.
Because creating a will isn’t about preparing for the worst. It’s about making sure the people you love are protected and your wishes are honored. Schedule a consultation today.