Do you have a will? This is not something that most of us like to think about but it will help to protect the people you love who live after your death. Here are some compelling reasons to get your will sorted out sooner rather than later:
Naming a guardian of your children
A will not only shares out your estate but also gives you a chance to say who you want to care for any dependents under the age of 18. If you do not, the decision could be left to the family court who might choose someone you would not agree with.
Financial aid for children
You can also leave a plan to provide for a child’s future financially. Maybe you have money you want to set aside for education or their hobbies or to put into savings to help buy their first home. You can also set the trust, giving you a greater say over how and when they receive the money. All this won’t be possible if it is not stated in law with a will.
To provide for step-children
Step-children could be a big part of your life not just your children, but did you know that the law only states spouses and blood relatives can inherit in the absence of a will? If you are considering stepchildren receiving anything after your death, you have to include them in a will. The same thing applies to foster children.
Unmarried partners
No matter how long you have been together, if there is no will it mean no rights whatsoever to your assets for unmarried partners should you die without a will. If you want your partner to inherit their fair share, then you should include this in a will.
Help those who might be grieving
Having a will helps those you leave behind to complete matters without doubt, confusion or further upset. Planning a funeral is another sensible step to take in advance to ease pressure on loved ones. For Funeral Directors Billericay, visit a site like https://www.bennettsfunerals.co.uk/essex/funeral-directors-billericay/
Protect property
If you own a property and live there with unmarried partners and stepchildren, they are not necessarily in line to inherit should you die without a will and this could leave them homeless. With a will, you can leave them part of the property or give them the right to stay.
Avoid disputes
When a person does not leave a will, the process of dividing an estate could cause a family to fall out and fight. Contested probate can be stressful and annoying, and also expensive. Wills leave a clear and well-prepared expression of your desires and intentions which can help avoid disputes altogether.
Deciding who should settle your affairs
When you write a will, you can decide who you want to be the executor or executors of it. These are the people who will deal with carrying out your last wishes on your behalf. It gives you the opportunity to find the best person for the job and give them prior warning that this is expected of them on your death.