The Top 3 Reasons You Need a Simple Will (and How Your IAM Legal Plan Can Help)

Life is unpredictable. We plan for vacations, retirement, and even dinner, but often neglect the most crucial planning of all: what happens when we’re gone. While the topic of death can be uncomfortable, creating a simple will is an act of love and responsibility. It ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.

As an IAM Legal Plan member, you have access to this essential service, making it easier than ever to secure your family’s future. Still debating? Here are the top three reasons why you need a simple will.  

1. Protect Who and What You Love

If you pass away without a will, in legal terms, you’d be considered “intestate.” This means state laws, rather than your personal wishes, decide how your assets are distributed. In many cases, this can lead to unintended consequences. For example:  

• Unintended Beneficiaries: Your assets might go to distant relatives you barely know, rather than your closest family members or friends.
• Custody Battles: If you have minor children, a court will decide who becomes their guardian, potentially leading to family disputes.
• Delayed Inheritance: The probate process, which is the legal process of validating a will (or distributing assets without one), can be lengthy and expensive, delaying your loved ones’ access to necessary resources.

A simple will allows you to:

• Clearly choose who inherits your assets, ensuring your property goes to the people you care about most.
• Name a guardian for your minor children, providing peace of mind knowing they’ll be in good hands.
• Potentially streamline the probate process, making it faster and less costly for your beneficiaries.

2. Providing Clear Instructions and Avoiding Family Disputes

Even with good intentions, families can disagree about how to handle a deceased loved one’s estate. This can lead to emotional turmoil and even legal battles, adding stress to an already difficult time. A simple will can prevent these conflicts by:  

• Specifying Your Wishes: Clearly outlining how you want your assets distributed, reducing uncertainty and potential for disputes.  
• Designating an Executor: Naming a trusted individual to manage your estate, ensuring your wishes are carried out efficiently and impartially.
• Addressing Specific Requests: Distributing specific items to particular individuals, preventing arguments over sentimental or valuable possessions.

Think of your will as a roadmap for your loved ones, guiding them through the process of settling your estate. By providing clear instructions, you can minimize confusion and potential disagreements, allowing your family to focus on grieving and healing.

3. Peace of Mind and Empowerment

Creating a will is not just about distributing assets; it’s about taking control of your legacy and empowering your loved ones. Knowing you have a plan in place provides invaluable peace of mind, allowing you to focus on living your life to the fullest. It offers:

• Sense of Control: You’ll feel empowered knowing you’ve made important decisions about your future and the future of your family.
• Reduced Stress: You’ll release the burden on your loved ones by providing clear instructions and minimizing potential conflicts.
• Personal Legacy: You’ll ensure your values and wishes are honored, leaving a lasting legacy for those you care about.

Your IAM Legal Plan makes the process of creating a simple will accessible and affordable. You don’t have to navigate the complexities of estate planning alone. By utilizing this valuable benefit, you can take a proactive step towards securing your family’s future and achieving peace of mind.

Take Action Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Creating a simple will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your loved ones. As an IAM Legal Plan member, you have the resources and support you need to make this crucial step at no cost. Your Legal Plan makes the process of creating a simple will accessible and affordable.

Learn more about how to create a simple will by tapping below and submitting a form or call 646-921-9128.

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