My Final Wishes

More than 70% of Americans do not have a written will. More than 90% have not made their burial, funeral, or final disposition wishes known to their loved ones.

There is difficulty in thinking about one’s own mortality, however, failing to have a will permits the state legislature’s rules to govern. Without a will, critical issues such as family support, distribution timing, estate tax issues, and other important considerations are left to an inflexible system dictated by state and federal statutes.


***The Pleasant Reason For Using This App to Declare Your Final Wishes

The Joy of Specific Bequests

Most people have items near and dear to them. Frequently such special personal items have a meaning to another person close to the testator. A will should have section for specific bequests. In this section, for example, a granddaughter can be given a special ring, a nephew a set of baseball cards, or a close friend a special teapot.

Considering memories attached to such items and the people to whom they are meaningful can bring smiles and warm feelings.

***Other Practical Reasons For Making Your Wishes Known

-- Enables the testator to name an executor to administer the estate which can minimize probate and the related expenses.

-- Can lower estate settlement costs, minimizing estate taxes, waiving probate fees and bonds for the executor and streamline the disposition of estate assets, allowing a greater portion of the estate to pass to the beneficiaries.

-- Allows a testator to administer certain gifts to specific individuals or charitable organizations will be given. The testator is able to leave a legacy reflecting his/her values.

-- Reduces the risk of dissension among the survivors. A clear direction from the testator can avoid family arguments over an inheritance.

-- Lessens the burden on survivors and loved ones. At the testator’s death, they will have to handle the decedent’s personal affairs. Without a will, this job is much more difficult and may complicate probate issues or in the worst case scenario lead to costly civil litigation. Creating a will is an act of consideration for those left behind.

***The Importance Of Keeping the Will Current

Life situations change over time. There are births, deaths, marriages, divorces. Close relationships close grow distant.

An out-of-date will may direct assets to inappropriate others, such as former spouses or distant relatives with whom one was once close. Utilizing this app to keep periodic review of a will’s provisions can address these issues.

This app is dedicated in memory of Sioux Anderson (1954-2015).