August is National Make a Will Month, and Molly Kim, Philanthropy Officer with RMPBS, joined us to share why estate planning isn’t just for older adults or the wealthy.
“People often think, ‘I don’t have a lot of assets, so I don’t need a will,’” Molly said. “But without one, your estate can get caught up in the court process, which can be long and stressful for your loved ones.”Estate planning also covers more than just distributing money or property. Molly shared the story of an 18-year-old college student who became seriously ill. Without a Power of Attorney in place, her parents couldn’t communicate with doctors until legal documents were drawn up in the middle of a crisis. “It’s about peace of mind for you and your family, so important decisions aren’t left to chance,” she explained. And wills can include personal wishes too, from who cares for your pets to how you’d like your funeral arranged. “It’s never too early to start,” Molly stressed. “You can always update your will as your life changes.”
To help the community take action, RMPBS is hosting a free virtual three-part estate planning series on August 20, September 25, and October 22 from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Sessions will cover the basics, legal steps, and navigating complex family situations. Register here. As Molly reminds us, “Don’t wait for a crisis. Plan now, so your loved ones aren’t left guessing.”