Why Does Everyone Need A Will?

Your will doesn't have to be perfect the first time around. Small changes, such as guardian designations and charities to include can be changed with a phone call and a fresh signature. You should select a guardian or executor of your choice as that is usually better then having someone else select for you.

With a Will
• You can direct the distribution of your assets to those you care about most.
• You can choose a personal representative (executor) who will oversee the distribution of your assets.
• You avoid unnecessary expenses on the administration of the estate.
• You can provide appropriately for minor children by naming a guardian or establishing a trust.
• You can provide for family members, friends, or relatives according to their needs.
• You can save considerable estate tax by utilizing proper estate planning techniques.
• You can provide support for charitable causes that have a special meaning for you.

Without a Will
• State intestacy statutes determine the distribution of your property.
• The court appoints an administrator for you.
• Because the administrator is subject to constant court supervision, the cost of administering the estate may be greater.
• You cannot provide for minors. The court will appoint a guardian for them, and the guardian will make decisions about a child’s care that you should have made.
• Your heirs will benefit equally by class not necessarily in the proportions you would have intended.
• Your estate may lose thousands of dollars in needless taxes because you did not take advantage of the tax-saving opportunities available to you.
• You cannot support a charitable cause.

Individual financial circumstances vary. The information on this site does not constitute legal or tax advice. Because of the complexity of estate planning, it is important that your attorney structure your estate and draft your will or truts so as to best carry out your wishes. Minnesota Public Radio cannot act as executor of a donor's estate. Individual support guarantees that substance and values, not commercial considerations, govern our programming. Please include MPR in your will and provide a sound legacy to future generations.

We use reasonable efforts to include up-to-date and accurate information on this site, but make no representations, warranties or assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. MPR is not liable for any damages related to your reliance on this Charitable Gift Planning site.