While planning for the worst can be morose, taking steps to make a will is essential to preserving your wishes for family and loved ones. In Hinesville, GA, the attorneys at Arnold & Stafford emphasize that a will is the only way to legally protect your assets and division preferences—which is why there’s no better time than now to create one. Not only will your will detail exactly how you want things to be handled, but it’s also legally binding.

3 Reasons to Make a Will Today

1. Ensure Asset Division

Investments, properties, high-value assets, and heirlooms are just a few examples of belongings family members share in inheritances. If you pass without a will, everything is up for grabs. A will ensures the items you care about go to the people you choose and keeps creditors or third parties from entering the equation. It will also keep the process in order, as family feuds often arise from unorganized asset divisions.

2. Minimize Taxes

When you pass without a will, your money and assets must go through probate before being distributed. In probate, they’re subject to an estate tax, where the government and state will take a sizable amount of the money. A will keeps these matters from passing through probate, and—while the money will eventually be taxed in one way or another—it will initially be passed down to family members without taking a significant hit.

3. Establish a Guardian

The worst can happen without warning, and if you have children, it’s important to establish a guardian should you pass sooner than expected. A will allows you to detail all related wishes, as well as how you’d like to be cared for should you become incapacitated. This ranges from financial management to health care options. Establishing such preferences now will not only provide you peace of mind, but it will also ensure your family’s well-being.

You’re never too young to make a will, so turn to the legal team at Arnold & Stafford for assistance. They offer a variety of will, estate planning, and family trust services to help you plan for the future. Call (912) 369-4529 today to schedule an appointment to make a will, and visit their website and Facebook to learn about their criminal defense services.