Any time that you hear someone talk about writing a will or making an estate plan, do you make a mental note to get your own estate plans started? On some levels, this is a very good mindset. It shows that you know how important estate planning is for your family’s future, and you’d like to do it when you can.
On the other hand, though, this also shows that you’ve been putting things off. You’ve been procrastinating something crucial, even though you know how important estate planning is. You are certainly not alone, however.
Nearly 7 out of 10 people have no estate plan
Though the statistics do vary from state to state and country to country, a quick examination has shown that about 68% of those in the United States do not even have a will. That’s a vast majority and represents nearly 7 out of every 10 people that you meet.
The reasons for this oversight are different in each case. Like you, some people want to do it and know it’s important, but they haven’t gotten around to it yet. Others feel like they don’t have the money to pay for it, even though their estate stands to lose far more if they die without a will. Still others believe that they can do their estate planning in 10 or 15 years, so there is no reason to rush it.
You should start your estate plans now
Whatever your reasons for delaying your actions, it’s time to get things started. You do not know what the future holds, so it’s wise to make an estate plan as soon as possible.