For many people, writing a will is one of those tasks that’s easy to put off. Not knowing where to start or being unsure of what all to cover can make the responsibility daunting to begin. August’s Make-A-Will Month serves as an important reminder that planning ahead isn’t about expecting the worst, it’s about caring for the people you love.
At Gerst Funeral Home, we’ve had the privilege of walking alongside families during some of life’s most difficult moments. We know firsthand that when important decisions have already been made and wishes have been documented, families benefit from spending less time navigating uncertainty and have more time to focus on one another.
In this guide, we’ll walk through:
- The importance of creating a will
- When to make a will
- Helpful pre-planning resources
A Will Is More Than a Legal Document
When people hear the word “will,” they often think about dividing possessions or settling an estate. While those things are certainly important, a will represents much more than paperwork.It’s your opportunity to answer questions your family may not know how to answer on their own.
It can help clarify your wishes, identify who should manage your estate, provide for loved ones, and reduce confusion during an already emotional time. Most importantly, it gives your family confidence that they are honoring your intentions.
In an article for Make-A-Will Month, The Michael J. Fox Foundation explains that creating a will is a powerful way to protect what matters most, care for your loved ones, and preserve the legacy you hope to leave behind.
Planning Is an Act of Love
Many people avoid estate planning because they don’t want to think about death. The reality is that creating a will is one of the most caring things you can do for your family. Imagine the relief your loved ones may feel knowing they don’t have to wonder what you would have wanted.
By planning ahead you will ease stress, reduce family conflict, and allow those closest to you to focus on healing rather than paperwork. It’s one final way to care for the people who matter most.
It’s Never Too Early
A common misconception is that wills are only for retirees or those with significant wealth. In truth, every adult can benefit from having an estate plan.
Major life events are often good reminders to create, or update, a will:
- Marriage or divorce
- The birth or adoption of a child
- Purchasing a home
- Changes in your financial situation
- Retirement
- The loss of a spouse or loved one
Even if you’ve already written a will, it’s wise to review it every few years to ensure it still reflects your current wishes. Life changes, and your estate plan should change with it.
Planning Goes Beyond Your Will
While a will is an important part of planning ahead, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Many families include funeral preferences, organize important documents in one place, and update beneficiary information. These conversations may feel uncomfortable at first, but often become meaningful opportunities to share your wishes and the legacy you hope to leave behind.
Resources to Help You Get Started
If you’ve been thinking about creating or updating your will, Make-A-Will Month is an excellent time to begin.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation offers several free planning resources that anyone (not just members of the Parkinson’s community) may find helpful. Their guides explain how to begin the estate planning process, when it may be time to update your documents, and practical steps for getting started.
A Lasting Gift
None of us know what tomorrow will bring. While we can’t predict the future, we can prepare for it. Creating a will isn’t about dwelling on the end of life. It’s about making life a little easier for the people you’ll always care about.
At Gerst Funeral Homes, we believe planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your family. If you’ve been considering preplanning your funeral or have questions about how planning ahead can provide peace of mind, our compassionate team is here to help guide you through the conversation at your pace, and with your family’s needs at heart.
If you’re ready to begin planning ahead or simply want to learn more, we invite you to explore the helpful resources available on our website: https://gerstfuneralhomes.com/resources/