Fall is in the air. The sun is setting earlier, the leaves are changing and it’s cool at night.
Fall is a time for gathering the harvest and anticipation of winter. It’s a time for looking after things, canning, storing, putting things in order for later use.
There is no better time of year than this to do your Will and Powers of Attorney, which are important tools in planning and managing your life and finances.
We are here to explain the process, answer questions, get you started and help you complete the process. These two articles have some useful tips about why Wills are important and how to get started.
Links:
The Ontario Bar Association is responsible for the November Wills month program: http://www.oba.org/makeawill
The law firm Hull & Hull have posted this useful article about the importance of wills and powers of attorney.
https://hullandhull.com/2015/11/november-is-make-a-will-month/
Wills aren’t just for people with money. Even if you live on a fixed income and don’t have much in the bank or many possessions, you should have a will.
Here are some good reasons why:
- a will appoints someone to be in charge of wrapping up your affairs when you’ll not be there any more to do it yourself. This person is called your Executor because they “execute” on your wishes;
- a will can specify the kind of funeral and burial you would like, which is a nice thing to do, but also can be very important if you want particular things or your religious beliefs require certain things;
- if you want to be cremated, a crematorium may need to see the will to make sure that is actually your wish;
- banks, investment companies and even your phone company may need to see a will before they will close your account or release funds to anyone other than you;
- Everyone comes from somewhere and a will can be a place to list next of kin so someone can contact them when your time has come;
- even if you don’t have many things, someone needs to look after them and your family and friends may be confused about who should be in charge; your will clearly makes someone responsible.
- giving a special momento or something of sentimental value to a child or special friend can have great meaning to them;
- even a small sum of money given to an organization or cause you support can make a real difference, creating a lasting legacy.
But if you are on a fixed income, we know money is tight. It can be hard to get a will done affordably. We have a special plan for people on fixed incomes. We can’t do it for free but we’ll come as close as we can. Please use our C
Contact form to get in touch.
Professionally drafted wills and powers of attorney CALL (807) 738-4895
