August Is National Make-a-Will Month: Here's Why It Matters

Here's the truth:
A Will isn't about age or wealth. It's about making sure the people you love aren't left with confusion, conflict, or court proceedings when they're already grieving.

What a Will actually does
A Will is a legal document that answers three essential questions:
1- Who gets what?
Your Will specifies how your belongings, home, car, savings, and personal items should be distributed.
2- Who takes care of your children or pets?
Your Will names the guardian you trust to care for them.
3- Who carries out your wishes?
Your Will names an executor, the person responsible for making sure your instructions are followed.

What happens if you don't have a Will?
Without a Will, your estate goes through "intestate" succession. That means:

• State law determines who inherits your assets (which may not align with your wishes)
• Courts may appoint someone to manage your estate (who may not be your first choice)
• Family disagreements can arise over who gets what
• The process takes longer and can be more expensive
• If you have minor children, a court decides who raises them

A Will prevents all of this by putting you in control.

"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 reasons to create a Will.  A Will prevents all of this by putting you in control.

Will vs. Will and Trust: What's the difference?
Will: The foundation of any estate plan. It documents your wishes and names guardians and executors.
Trust:  Adds additional benefits:

• Helps loved ones avoid probate
• Keeps your affairs private (Wills become public record)
• Gives you control over timing (e.g., "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 structure, and assets, not on wealth.

Make this August the month you finally check it off.
National Make-a-Will Month exists because too many families learn the hard way what happens without a plan. You have the power to spare your loved ones that burden. You recive 26% off your plan until 8/31/2026.

Not sure which plan is right for you?
Our estate planning service starts with a quick quiz to help you figure out what's best for you. If you need to speak an expert, you can!
Get started in 5 easy steps
1. Go to our Wills and Trusts page
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, with FAQs
5. Voila! Your personalized Estate Plan will be ready in 10 business days
The best part?

As a member of RFCU, you have access to unlimited support to help you every step of your estate planning journey.
Call our support team M-F, 9 AM-5 PM at 973-348-3059 or book a free consultation using our easy-to-use scheduling tool. 

Ready to protect what matters most?  Click Here