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 Why do I need a will?

The court decides who gets assets in your name alone, if you don’t have one:

 

A will is a document that allows you state who you want to get your assets. A will is a document that specifies who will inherit your bank accounts, real estate, jewelry, cars, and other property after you die. In the event that you die without an executed Will the laws of your state will decide who gets what, without regard to your wishes or your heirs’ basic needs and requirements.

Intestacy laws apply in the event that you pass away without a will and the laws vary considerably from state to state. In such event, if you die and leave a spouse and children, your assets will be divided between your surviving spouse and children. If you are not married and don’t have any children, then your state is likely to decide who among your blood relatives will inherit your estate. A family tree or pedigree chart representing family relationships will be used in determining who the heirs are who will receive your estate assets that were not covered in the Will.

If you have children, you want to decide how and when they will receive your assets:

One of the most important reasons to make a will is for individuals or couples with minor children, because they are the best and fastest way to appoint guardianship of minors. You can designate a guardian to care for your children if you die before they become legal adults as well as naming a trustee to manage your money for your children until they reach adulthood. In addition, trusts can be created under your Will to safeguard, protect and invest the estate assets until your child attains age 18, 21 or any other age that you decide.