Will

There is no valid reason not to make a will.

Having made this bold statement, what steps should you make to prepare a will?

Call an attorney and make an appointment.
The attorney will know what questions to ask.
Be sure that the will is in writing, and is signed, dated and witnessed by persons not in the will.

Why delay . . . There is not a better time.

The only question is . . . Why don't I have a will? There is no good reason, but here are some common responses:

I don't have any money to give away.
I don't have time.
My spouse will get everything anyway.
It costs too much to see an attorney.
I don't know an attorney.

What happens if I die without a will?

Probate: Court orders debts paid and assets distributed according to state law.
Costs: Your estate pays all court costs and fees for attorneys, appraisers, accountants, executors, etc.
Approximate time: Usually six months or more.
Privacy: NONE. Probate proceeds are public. Your debts and assets as well as who receives your property are a public record.
Flexibility and control: NONE. Your property is controlled by the probate proceedings according to state law.

Do wills need to be reviewed and updated?

The answer is a common sense response. Yes. Like most things, the will should be revised on a regular basis. Here is a list that should alert you to consider seeking your attorney's advice and counsel:

Several years since your last will,
Change in marital status,
Births, new child or grandchild,
Deaths, a person named in your will,
Divorce, and
Needs change.

If you are interested in more information about including the Sisters of Saint Benedict in your will, please contact Mount Saint Benedict Foundation, 629 Summit Ave., Crookston, MN 56716-2799, or email Foundation director.

Charitable Gift Annuities and Charitable Remainder Unitrusts
Life Insurance
Memorials
Wills
Living Trusts