August Is National Make-A-Will Month: Here's Why It Matters
August is National Make-A-Will Month, a timely reminder to take care of one of the most meaningful documents you'll ever create. If making a Will has been on your list for a while, you're in good company, and this is a great month to finally check it off.
Here's the truth: A Will isn't about age or wealth. It's about making sure the people you love know exactly what you want, so caring for them is one less thing left to chance.
The Basics
What a Will Actually Does
A Will is a document that answers three simple questions:
1. Who gets what?
Your Will spells out how your belongings, home, car, savings, and personal items should be shared.
2. Who cares for your family?
Your Will names the guardian you trust to look after your children or pets.
3. Who carries it out?
Your Will names an executor, the person you trust to make sure your instructions are followed.
Putting Your Wishes in Writing
Why It Matters
Without a Will, the people you love are left to guess at what you would have wanted, often during an already difficult time. Everyday questions, like who should raise your children or who receives a treasured family item, can turn into hard decisions your family has to make without you. Writing your wishes down changes that. It keeps things clearer and simpler for the people you care about, so they can focus on each other instead of paperwork and guesswork.
A Will puts you in control and gives your family a clear path to follow.
A Common Question About Wills
"I don't have much, do I still need a Will?"
Yes. A Will isn't just for people with large estates. If you have a car, a bank account, personal belongings with sentimental value, children or pets, or opinions about who should (or shouldn't) inherit from you, then you have good reasons to create a Will.
Will vs. Will and Trust: What's the Difference?
Know Your Options
A Will is the starting point for most people. It documents your wishes and names the guardians and executor you trust.
A Trust adds a few extra benefits:
· Helps loved ones skip a lengthy legal process
· Keeps the details of your plan private to your family
· Gives you control over timing. For example, "My child receives their inheritance at age 25"
Many people start with a Will and add a Trust later. The right choice depends on your goals, family, and assets, not on wealth.
Get Started on Your Estate Plan
Not sure which plan is right for you?
Start with a quick quiz from Goldenwest Estate Planning Services to help you find what’s best for you.
1. Log in to online banking on a desktop and navigate to Tools, and click Estate Planning
2. Take a short 2-3 minute quiz to help you choose your plan
3. Pick the plan that best fits your needs
4. Complete a guided, self-paced questionnaire
5. Your personalized Wills and Trusts documents will be ready in 10 business days
As a member, you have access to unlimited support to help you every step of the way, whenever you have a question or want a second look.
Ready to create a plan for the people who matter most?