Addressing the Will Crisis, Part 1: Why and How to Write Your Will

A startling statistic reveals that only 32% of Americans have a will¹. This means that a significant majority of the population is at risk of leaving their assets and loved ones in a state of uncertainty upon their passing. The top reasons cited for not having a will include procrastination, believing they don't have enough assets, the perceived expense, and not knowing how to go about it. To address these concerns and support our members, the NRA is now offering free online will planning—with no catch, it's 100% free.

Why Writing a Will Is Crucial

Writing a will is a fundamental step in estate planning that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your property, finances, and other belongings to be managed and distributed. It also allows you to appoint guardians for minor children and specify funeral arrangements. Here are some key reasons why writing a will is important:

1. Ensuring Your Wishes Are Followed: A will provides clear instructions on how your estate should be handled. Without a will, your assets will be distributed according to state intestacy laws, which may not align with your preferences.
2. Protecting Your Loved Ones: One of the primary benefits of writing a will is the ability to appoint guardians for minor children. This ensures that your children are cared for by someone you trust and who shares your values. Additionally, a will can provide financial support for your loved ones, ensuring they are taken care of after your passing.
3. Supporting Causes You Care About: A will allows you to leave a legacy by supporting charities and causes that are important to you. The NRA and the four NRA Public Charities can all receive gifts through your will. By including charitable bequests in your will, you can continue to make a positive impact even after you're gone. This can also provide tax benefits for your estate, maximizing the value of your donations. Request a member giving guide to get more details on leaving a gift to an NRA nonprofit.

Common Barriers to Writing a Will

1. Procrastination: Many people put off writing a will because they believe they have plenty of time or find the process daunting. However, life is unpredictable, and it's essential to have a will in place to protect your loved ones.
2. Not Having Enough Assets: Some individuals believe they don't have enough assets to warrant a will. However, a will is not just about distributing wealth; it also includes appointing guardians for minor children and specifying funeral arrangements.
3. Cost: The perceived expense of writing a will can be a deterrent. However, the NRA's free online will planning service eliminates this barrier, making it accessible to everyone.
4. Not Knowing How: The process of writing a will can seem complex, but with the right resources and guidance, it can be straightforward. The NRA's free online will planning service provides step-by-step instructions to help you create a valid and enforceable will in all 50 states.

Benefits of the NRA's Free Online Will Planning

1. Accessibility: The NRA's free online will planning service makes it easy for anyone to create a will from the comfort of their own home. There are no hidden fees or catches—it's genuinely free.
2. Guidance: The service provides clear and concise instructions, ensuring that your will is valid and enforceable. This helps you avoid common mistakes and ensures your wishes are followed.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your will is in place provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones. It ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are taken care of.

Conclusion

Writing a will is a crucial step in estate planning that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes. It provides peace of mind for your loved ones, supports the causes you care about, and helps avoid the negative consequences of intestacy. By addressing common barriers such as procrastination, perceived expense, and lack of knowledge, the NRA's free online will planning makes it easy and accessible for every NRA member to create a will. Don't let uncertainty be a part of your legacy—take the first step towards securing your future and the future of your loved ones by writing your will today.

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References:

This was the results of a 2024 caring.com survey.