Making a will is one of those things that people put off for years—sometimes until it’s too late. Maybe you think you don’t need one yet, or maybe you just don’t want to think about what happens after you’re gone. I get it.
The truth is, everyone needs a will—and the best time to make one is now. Let’s break down why it’s important and when you should seriously consider creating or updating yours.
Why Do You Need a Will?
A will isn’t just about passing down money or property—it’s about making things easier for your loved ones when you’re gone. If you die without a will (called dying intestate), your estate is divided according to state laws, which may not align with your wishes.
Here’s what happens if you don’t have a will:
The state decides who inherits your assets—not you.
Your partner (if unmarried) may get nothing.
The courts appoint a guardian for your minor children.
Your family may face delays, legal fees, and stress.
Bottom line? A will gives you control over what happens after you’re gone.
The Best Time to Make a Will Is Now
Many people assume wills are only for the elderly or the wealthy. But the truth is, anyone with assets, children, or loved ones they care about needs one.
So, when should you make (or update) a will?
- When You Get Married (Or Enter a Long-Term Relationship)
Marriage changes everything—including your legal rights. If you don’t have a will, your spouse may inherit everything, even assets you wanted to leave to someone else. On the flip side, if you’re not married, your partner may get nothing unless you specify otherwise.
- When You Have Children (Or Grandchildren)
One of the most important reasons to make a will is to protect your kids. If something happens to you, who will raise them? Who will manage their inheritance?
- When You Buy a Home or Acquire Property
If you own a home, condo, or land, you need to specify who gets it when you pass away. If you don’t, your heirs may:
Fight over ownership.
Be forced to sell the property.
Struggle with legal delays.
- When You Start or Sell a Business
If you’re a business owner, your will should include:
Who takes over your business if something happens to you.
What happens to your shares or partnership interests.
How debts and assets are handled to keep your business running.
Without a clear plan, your business could collapse after you’re gone.
- When You Receive an Inheritance or Windfall
Did you recently inherit money, property, or valuable assets? A sudden increase in wealth should prompt you to update your will to:
✅ Protect those assets for your loved ones.
✅ Minimize estate taxes where possible.
✅ Ensure specific family members get what you want to pass down. - When You Get Divorced or Remarry
Divorce automatically revokes parts of your will in most states, but not all. If you don’t update it, your ex may still inherit everything.
If you remarry, it gets even more complicated—especially if you have children from a previous marriage. You’ll need to ensure:
Your new spouse is taken care of.
Your children from a prior marriage still receive their fair share.
Your ex-spouse doesn’t inherit assets unintentionally.
- When You Have a Serious Health Diagnosis
No one wants to think about getting sick or passing away, but life is unpredictable. A will ensures your wishes are honored before it’s too late.
Need help with where to start, Contact us today.
If you or anyone you know have any probate questions or inherited a property, contact us today for a free consultation.
Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty Advisors
Jason Blake
Associate Broker, Certified Probate Expert
718-571-8366
Hal Blake
Broker/Owner
718-571-8366