Is making or updating your will toward the end of your to-do list? You’re not alone. According to Caring.com’s 2024 Wills and Estate Planning Survey, only 32% of Americans have a will in place.

Creating a will, however, is one of the most important things you can do to care for your family. It ensures your wishes are protected, your dependents are cared for, and your loved ones are spared unnecessary heartache and expense.

There’s More

Your will can also be a meaningful way to communicate what’s most important to you and cultivate a legacy of generosity to pass down to your family.

Like any task, getting started is usually the hardest part. Use the following questions to lay a strong foundation on which to build your will and outline your plans. As a bonus, they’re great conversation starters for people in your life who may also need a little nudge to begin their own legacy plan.

5 Questions to Ask Before Making Your Will

1) How do you want to be remembered?

This is a big question, but the answer doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small by picking three attributes and build from there.

2) What are the most important lessons you’ve learned?

Your loved ones need your wisdom, born out of the experiences that have shaped you. Sharing what you’ve learned will inspire the generations that follow you.

3) What values do you want to pass on?

You have principles that guide the decisions you make. Document them for your family. This is a beautiful part of your legacy.

4) What stories do you want to share with future generations?

This can (and should!) be everything from memorable events and special occasions to family history and funny anecdotes.

5) What people and organizations embody the values you’ve identified by answering these questions?

Because their values align with yours, this list of individuals and institutions is a natural place to find your executor, guardian of your children, and beneficiaries of your estate — including charities that matter to you, like Serge.

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Have you considered including Serge in your will? Learn more about our free and confidential services here.

Photo by LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash