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Top 5 Reasons to Have a Will

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Will

Just as you want the best for your loved ones now, while you're alive, you also want the best for them after you're gone. And leaving a positive legacy for the people you care about starts with having a legally sound will.

Here are the top 5 reasons why you should have a will:

You decide how your estate will be distributed. If you die without a will, there is no guarantee that your intended desires will be carried out. Having a will helps minimize any family fights about your estate that may arise, and also determines the “who, what, and when” of your estate.

It provides an opportunity to tie up other important legal loose ends. Should you lose the ability to make decisions for yourself, authorizing a power of attorney will manage legal and financial matters on your behalf, or drafting an advanced healthcare directive will guide the healthcare proxy and healthcare providers with end–of–life decisions, etc.

To avoid a lengthy probate process. Having a will speeds up the probate process and informs the court how you'd like your estate divided. If you die without a will the probate court will decide how to divide your estate without your input, which can cause long, unnecessary delays.

Make gifts and donations. The ability to make gifts is a good reason to have a will because it allows your legacy to live on and reflect your personal values and interests.

Because tomorrow is not promised. Procrastination and the unwillingness to accept death as a part of life are common reasons for not having a will. Sometimes the realization that wills are necessary comes too late – such as when an unexpected death or disability occurs.

Do you need help with creating a will?

Call Canopy at 800.433.2320 for your Free Will Kit Questionnaire and Simple Will preparation and be connected with an attorney for review and preparation of a Simple Will.