Creating a Last Will and Testament is one of the most important steps in planning for your future and protecting your loved ones. Without a Will, your estate will be distributed based on state laws—not your personal wishes.
This article outlines the key reasons why nearly everyone should have a Will in place.
1. You Decide Who Gets What
If you die without a Will (also called dying intestate), your state’s laws determine who inherits your property. This may not reflect your preferences and may exclude close friends, unmarried partners, or charitable causes.
With a Will, you control:
Who receives your property
What specific items go to which individuals
How assets are divided between heirs
→ Related: What Is a Last Will and Testament?
2. You Can Name a Guardian for Minor Children
If you have children under 18, a Will allows you to legally name a guardian, who is someone you trust to care for and raise them if something happens to you.
Without a Will, a court will decide who takes on this responsibility, which may not align with your wishes.
3. You Appoint an Executor to Manage Your Estate
Your Will lets you name an Executor, the person responsible for:
Filing your Will with the court
Managing the probate process
Paying any debts or taxes
Distributing your assets according to your instructions
Choosing a reliable Executor helps ensure your estate is settled efficiently and correctly.
→ Related: What Is an Executor?
4. You Can Help Prevent Family Conflicts
Clear instructions in a legally valid Will reduce confusion and help avoid disputes among family members. By putting your wishes in writing, you can reduce stress for your loved ones and minimize the risk of disagreements during a difficult time.
5. It’s Easy to Update When Life Changes
A Will isn’t permanent. You can revise it as your life evolves. Whether you marry, divorce, have children, or experience a major change in assets, keeping your Will updated ensures it always reflects your current wishes.
→ Related: When Should I Update My Will?
Summary: Why a Will Matters
Without a Will | With a Will |
State decides how your assets are divided | You decide who gets what |
Court picks a guardian for your children | You name a trusted guardian |
No control over the probate process | Your chosen Executor manages your estate |
Higher chance of family disputes | Clear instructions help reduce conflict |