Did you know that August is National Make-A-Will Month? Although it may seem unusual to dedicate an entire month to estate planning, the reality is that most American adults don’t have a will in place. Creating a will isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly- it’s an important step in planning for your future and protecting the people and causes you care about. Here are several reasons why a will is relevant for everyone.
Decide Who Gets What
A will lets you decide who gets your belongings. You can leave specific items to certain people and choose who inherits the rest of your estate.
Protect Your Children
A will allows you to name guardians for your minor children instead of the court making that decision.
Prevent Family Conflict
A will can help prevent family conflict. When you have a will, you choose who manages your estate and there’s less room for confusion or disagreements after you’re gone.
Leave A Legacy
A will lets you continue supporting the people, causes, and institutions that have meant the most to you during your lifetime. You can designate charitable gifts, set up scholarships, or endow community programs, leaving a legacy that lives on even after you’re gone.
Leave Instructions for Your Digital Life
A will allows you to name someone to manage your online accounts, like email, photos, or social media, and leave instructions for how they should be handled.
Care For Your Pets
A will ensures you get to choose who will care for your pets. You can name someone to take them in and even leave money for their care, so they’re safe and loved after you’re gone.
Have Peace of Mind
Creating a will is an easy way to protect your loved ones and make sure your wishes are followed. Knowing your wishes will be honored brings comfort to both you and your loved ones.
If you don’t already have a will, this month is a great time to start writing one. If you’re unsure where to begin, the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Ann Arbor, part of the Jewish Federation, is here to support you on your planning journey. You can also consult your estate attorney or financial advisor to explore your options.
If you already have a will, estate planning experts recommend reviewing it every few years or after major life events like moving, getting married, or welcoming children or grandchildren. Take 15 minutes this month to ensure your will is current and truly reflects your wishes.
The Greater Ann Arbor Jewish community is fortunate to be a part of the Life & Legacy® program, which helps people and families give back to our community through these 11 local Jewish organizations: Ann Arbor Orthodox Minyan, Beth Israel Congregation, Chabad House of Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University Center for Jewish Studies, Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor, Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, Jewish Cultural Society, Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County, Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, Temple Beth Emeth, and University of Michigan Hillel.
If you’d like more information on how you can use your will to support these organizations, please visit JewishAnnArbor.org/LifeAndLegacy or contact Osnat Gafni-Pappas at osnat@jewishannarbor.org or 734-773-3538.