What is a Will and Why It Matters
A will is a legal document that explains how you want your property, money, and personal belongings to be handled after your death. It also lets you name guardians for your children, appoint someone you trust to carry out your wishes, and reduce confusion or conflict for your loved ones. Having a will matters because without one, state laws decide what happens to your estate, often in ways that do not reflect your wishes. A will is not just about wealth, it is about care, clarity, and easing the burden on those you leave behind.
What is a Will?
A will, often called a “last will and testament,” is a written document that lays out your final wishes. At its simplest, it tells the world:
Who should inherit your property and assets
Who will act as the executor, the person managing your estate
Who will care for your children if they are under 18
What personal items, family heirlooms, or keepsakes should go to whom
A will is one of the most important parts of estate planning. Even if you do not own a home or have significant savings, it helps bring clarity and peace of mind to your loved ones.
Why Does Having a Will Matter?
Protecting Your Family
Without a will, the state steps in to decide how your assets are divided. This process, called “intestate succession,” follows strict rules that may not reflect your values or relationships. For example:
A partner you are not legally married to may receive nothing
Stepchildren may not inherit automatically
Important keepsakes could be sold rather than passed on
Having a will ensures your voice is heard and your people are protected.
Reducing Conflict
Families often face disagreements after a loss. A clear, written will reduces uncertainty and helps prevent painful disputes. By putting your wishes on paper, you give your loved ones a roadmap during a difficult time.
Appointing Guardianship
If you have minor children, a will allows you to name who should care for them. Without this, the court decides, which can create stress and conflict. Naming a guardian is one of the most important and loving choices you can make.
Providing Peace of Mind
Perhaps the greatest value of a will is the sense of relief it brings. You know your family will not have to guess, argue, or face unnecessary legal hurdles.
Common Misunderstandings About Wills
“I do not have enough money to need one”
Wills are not only for the wealthy. Even if you rent your home, own only a small bank account, or have few possessions, you still leave behind decisions that need to be made.
“I am too young for this”
Life is unpredictable. A will is an act of care for those you love, no matter your age.
“My family will just figure it out”
Without guidance, “figuring it out” can be expensive, time-consuming, and emotionally draining.
What Happens if You Die Without a Will?
When someone passes away without a will, state laws decide who inherits. Typically, the order looks something like this:
Order of Inheritance Who Receives Assets 1. Spouse and children Divided by state law 2. Parents If no spouse or children 3. Siblings If no parents 4. Extended family If no siblings 5. The state If no relatives can be found
This process may take months or years, and it can drain resources that could have gone to loved ones.
Steps to Writing a Will
List Your Assets and Debts
Include your home, car, bank accounts, retirement funds, insurance policies, and personal belongings.
Decide on Beneficiaries
These are the people or organizations who will inherit.
Choose an Executor
This trusted person ensures your wishes are carried out.
Name Guardians for Minor Children
Decide who will care for your children if you cannot.
Write and Sign the Document
Depending on your state, witnesses or notarization may be required.
Store It Safely
Keep your will in a place your family can access, and let someone know where it is kept.
Will vs. Trust: What’s the Difference?
Will: Becomes effective after death, directs how assets are distributed, requires probate.
Trust: Can take effect during your lifetime, helps manage assets while alive and after death, may avoid probate.
Both can work together as part of a full estate plan.
FAQs About Wills
Can I write my own will?
Yes, you can use online templates or write one yourself, but legal guidance ensures it meets state requirements.
How often should I update my will?
Review it every few years, and especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not always, but an attorney can provide peace of mind and help prevent errors.
Does a will cover everything I own?
No. Some accounts, like retirement funds or life insurance, pass directly to named beneficiaries and are not covered by your will.
Stories from the Porch
“story” - name
About Sandy’s Porch
At Sandy’s Porch, we know that paperwork is only part of the story. Behind every will is a family navigating love, grief, and the unknown. Our porch is a place where you can find real tools to make the process easier. Whether you are just starting to plan or are overwhelmed by what comes after, Sandy’s Porch offers support, resources, and community.
If you are ready to take the next step, Sandy’s Porch can help you explore resources, find trusted partners, and connect with others walking a similar path.
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10 Helpful Resources for Creating a Will
1. Nolo’s Will-Making Guide
Plain-language books and online resources that explain how wills and estate planning work without the legal jargon.
👉 nolo.com
2. FreeWill
An online platform that helps you create a simple, legally valid will for free, with the option to update it anytime.
3. Trust & Will
A user-friendly digital service for creating wills, trusts, and guardianship documents, with affordable packages.
4. LegalZoom
Popular for quick, affordable online legal documents, including wills, with access to attorney review if needed.
5. Rocket Lawyer
Provides online will templates plus the ability to consult with licensed attorneys through a subscription model.
6. American Bar Association (ABA) Estate Planning Resources
A national directory and articles that explain estate planning basics, including finding a qualified lawyer near you.
7. AARP Estate Planning Resources
Guides, checklists, and member tools tailored for older adults and families planning for the future.
👉 aarp.org/money/estate-planning
8. Hospice Foundation of America – Planning Ahead
Gentle guidance on wills, advance directives, and end-of-life planning, written with compassion.
9. Everplans
A digital vault where you can store your will and other important documents securely, and share access with loved ones.
10. Sandy’s Porch Community & Resources
A welcoming space to explore will-making alongside other caregiving and end-of-life planning tools. With guides, checklists, and real stories, Sandy’s Porch helps you feel less alone in the process.
👉 [Sandy’s Porch – Resources Hub]
