August is here, and with it comes National Make-A-Will Month. This dedicated month is designed to act as a reminder to spend time thinking about the future and how you can protect it. And while it might feel like a luxury or something only wealthy people need to do, making a will is essential—and the benefits are immense.
Here are three good reasons we encourage you to make a will this August.
1. It’s a Tremendously Important Legal Document
More than two-thirds of American adults do not have a will. That’s a shame given that a will is such a powerful document. It can distribute assets, protect loved ones, and support the causes that matter most to you for generations to come. A will is a very important legal document that every adult should have.
With a will, you can plan ahead for your loved ones. For example, you can give family members a financial cushion, choose a legal guardian for your children, and even select the people you want to take care of your pets.
2. Give You and Your Family Peace of Mind
Wills aren’t just for the rich and famous. (And, in fact, the rich and famous have a history of not creating wills. Google “Prince estate” if you want to see just how dreadful things can get.) Wills make life and death easier for everyone, regardless of socio-economic status.
Think about all of your assets. You probably have more than you might imagine: a house, a car, savings, furniture, clothes, books, sentimental items, and more. Without a will, your loved ones will have a lot of work to do to find a home for these things. And divvying things up can create a lot of strife.
Writing a will helps prevent family conflict, relieves stress, and guarantees your assets go to the people you most want to have them. It also gives your family the confidence and guidance that they are following your wishes during an exceedingly challenging time.
3. Create a Legacy That Lasts Forever
None of us live forever. But there are plenty of ways to have a positive impact on the world long after you’re gone. One of these methods is to designate a charity in your will. You can name as many or as few charities as you want, select specific assets that you want to go to charities, donate a lump sum, designate a percentage of your estate—the possibilities are vast.
Donating to a nonprofit organization in your will won’t cost you anything for the rest of your life, but it can be invaluable to a cause that’s been close to your heart for years to come.
Make Your Will This Make-A-Will Month
Make-A-Will month is a fantastic opportunity to get more people to create wills. If you haven’t written your will yet—or you think it makes sense to update the will you have—now is a wonderful time to join the movement.
While making your plan, we are also here to help if you would like to include FINCA as part of your legacy. These gifts ensure that we can continue to alleviate poverty and empower people today, tomorrow, and for years to come. Contact FINCA today for help with your will by filling out the form below:
Editor’s Note: FINCA originally published this blog on August 19, 2022. We have since updated it for accuracy of facts and content and republished on August 7, 2024.
