Have you written a will? A will is a way to look after yourself and the people and causes you care about. It can be empowering and grounding to plan your legacy.
At its heart, a will provides clarity. It communicates your intentions when you can no longer do so, sparing loved ones from uncertainty during an already emotional time. Without clear guidance, families may face difficult decisions about property, finances, personal belongings, and care preferences, which can lead to stress or conflict. A well-prepared will offers reassurance and direction when they are needed most.
Many people postpone writing a will, assuming it is complex, time-consuming, or only relevant later in life. Creating one is often simpler than expected, whether done with legal support or an online tool. Wills can also be updated as circumstances change, making them a flexible and practical form of planning.
Writing a will is not about anticipating the worst—it is about emotional responsibility and leaving behind clarity, kindness, and care. It is a way to ensure your estate is able to support those people and causes most near to you.
Five Steps to Writing a Will
- Take inventory of your assets. List property, financial accounts, personal items, and digital assets.
- Choose beneficiaries and causes. Decide who or what matters most, including charitable organizations and loved ones.
- Select the executor of your will. Appoint a trusted person to carry out your wishes.
- Put it in writing. Work with an attorney or reputable online tool to create a legally valid will.
- Review and update regularly. Revisit your will as life changes to ensure it always reflects your intentions.
To learn how to include Sheppard Pratt in your will, contact Daniela Fried, senior director of development & planned giving, at daniela.fried@sheppardpratt.org or 443-826-7217.