by Wendy Clark
It’s National Make-a-Will-Month: A timely reminder to take care of our loved ones and support the causes closest to our hearts. People all over the country are writing or updating their will in August. Now creating a will is FREE and simpler than ever through our partner, FreeWill, an online will and trust-writing platform.
Have you ever wanted to make a difference but felt limited in your ability to make a significant impact on someone’s life? I certainly have. Whether it was shaping the lives of my children (who often had minds of their own), halting an injustice or saving a life, I often felt powerless to make any substantial difference. But I found an often-overlooked avenue in my will.
Why is making a will or trust important for most people? Some reasons why most people should have a current will are:
- Allows a smooth transition of assets to your loved ones, providing for their needs. Probate (the process of settling an estate without a will) can take up to 24 months.
- Saves money on court fees and final expenses.
- Ensures that your wishes are carried out.
- Designates guardians for minor children and pets.
- You can support causes that matter to you and create your legacy.
- Minimize taxes and complications for your heirs.
Recently, while reviewing my finances, I decided to check off this all-important item on my “To Do” list. My husband and I made one years ago when our kids were young. Time passed, the kids grew up, creating some changes in our finances.
I had good intentions, but like so many people (66%, in fact), I kept putting it off. I assumed it would be complicated or expensive, requiring a lawyer or a DIY kit I didn’t have time to figure out.
But when I finally sat down to do it, the process was surprisingly easy.
I simply visited the ICC website, clicked “Planned Giving” in the top menu, and then selected “Make My Will.” FreeWill guided me step by step through the process—even helping me include care instructions for our pets. It was simple, thorough, and empowering.
The FreeWill process allowed me to specify who would get my assets in the future. I could name a spouse, my children or any other person or charity including ICC.
Here’s where it gets exciting! Finally, I felt empowered to make a substantial difference in the lives of others! I may not be able to make sizable donations right now to charities I care about, but my future gift will help protect and provide for orphans. At the end of this journey on earth, any left-over savings and investments will go to my family members and a select few charities I would like to share it with.
Get inspired by National Make a Will Month and create or update your will or trust on our FreeWill site.
For more information, please contact Wendy Clark at wendy@forhiskids.org or call 800-422-7729.
FREE Will and Trust Resource
Create or update your empowering free will or trust in as little as 20 minutes – and absolutely FREE. It’s quick, easy, and secure. The following link will take you to the official FREE Will webpage. By clicking this link, they will know that you are a friend of the children at ICC!
