Where there’s a Will there’s a way
No one wants to dwell on their mortality, but do yourself and your loved ones a favour by sorting your Will, and you can live with the peace of mind that your wishes will be carried out and loved ones cared for on your passing.
If a person dies without a valid will, it’s called dying ‘intestate’. There are a number of reasons people don’t make a Will…
1. Cost
A Will generally costs less than $500 through a lawyer, or you can DIY it for under $50 using simple online templates. It’s a small cost now to save a lot of potential heartache later for the ones who matter to you.
2. The Law
Many people incorrectly assume the way their assets will be split upon their death. If you don’t have a Will, any member of your close or extended family is entitled to some portion of your estate.
If you don’t exactly specify your beneficiaries, there can be claims made on your assets which can cause legal, financial and emotional hardship for your loved ones.
Read the full breakdown of the formula used to divide up estates without a Will: https://nzlaw.co.nz/the-closing-chapter/what-if-theres-no-will
3. Age and stage
Even young people or those who without huge assets to pass on should make a Will. The ‘she’ll be right’ attitude can lead to difficult situations for those left behind. At a time when loved ones are grieving, a long drawn out legal process is the last thing you want to burden them with.
Get busy living or get busy dying
Sorting your Will is easy to put off, but even easier to put in place. Contact Joel at Advice Kiwi for a friendly chat about making provisions for your loved ones in your Will.