August is National Make-A-Will Month: Plan Your Peace

August is National Make-A-Will Month, presenting a timely opportunity to focus on an often-overlooked, yet vital, topic—creating a will. While many younger adults may assume that wills are only necessary for the elderly or the wealthy, creating a will is a caring decision regardless of your age or income level.

You Get to Decide What Happens to Your Stuff

You might not own a house or have significant investments, but a will ensures that everything you do own—such as your car, bank accounts, digital assets, or even your beloved pet—ends up in the right hands. Picture this: just like an artist has the final say over where their art is displayed, you have the say over what happens to your possessions.

You Can Name a Guardian for Your Children

For parents especially, a will is critical. It legally allows you to name a guardian for your children in the case of the unexpected. Imagine the comfort of knowing that if life threw a curve ball, your children would be taken care of by someone you trust.

You Can Make Medical and Legal Choices Clear

In addition to wills, everyone should a health care power of attorney or living will. These documents make your medical and legal choices known if you can’t speak for yourself. A financial power of attorney also known as a (general or durable power of attorney) allows you to name someone to handle your financial matters if you are incapacitated. Having a health care power of attorney and a living will, allow you to aovid a court guardianship process, which can be time consuming and costly.

Whether you're in your 20s or your 70s, having that clarity provides a peace of mind that knows no age boundaries.

You Make Things Easier for Loved Ones

By having a will in place, you prevent confusion, legal delays, and stress for your loved ones. Think of it as leaving a cherished book with a clearly written ending for those who continue the story—your family.

Making a will is a responsible and compassionate step that not only protects your loved ones but also gives you control over your wishes. Use this National Make-A-Will Month as motivation to create a will or encourage younger family members and friends to do so. Remember, peace of mind is something worth having at any stage of life.