{"id":142505,"date":"2025-08-26T10:03:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-26T14:03:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/?p=142505"},"modified":"2025-08-26T13:57:16","modified_gmt":"2025-08-26T17:57:16","slug":"making-a-will-in-2024-why-its-important-and-what-you-should-know-before-starting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/making-a-will-in-2024-why-its-important-and-what-you-should-know-before-starting\/","title":{"rendered":"Making a Will in 2025: Why It’s Important, What You Should Know Before Starting"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you think of your most important legal documents, there\u2019s a good chance your birth certificate, social security card, driver\u2019s license and passport come to mind. But what about your will? Only 32% of Americans have one, according to a 2024 report from senior living referral service Caring.com. That means 68% are leaving their future and assets in the hands of others, including the state, in the event of death.<\/p>\n

August is National Make-a-Will Month, raising awareness about the importance of estate planning. Make your will<\/a> in just 20 minutes and at no cost to you through UCF\u2019s new partnership with FreeWill.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

While you may not think you own a lot, you likely have more property than you realize: your home, clothing, furniture, books, sentimental items, even your social media accounts. Without a will \u2014 a legal document stating who you want to inherit your assets \u2014 your loved ones will be tasked with cleaning up your affairs when you pass on.<\/p>\n

Confronting our mortality can be uncomfortable. That\u2019s why Mary Merrell Bailey \u201985 \u201989 \u201901 \u201907<\/strong>, a five-time UCF College of Business<\/a> graduate and managing partner at Your Caring Law Firm, has devoted her career to guiding individuals through the will making process and more. Here, she shares five things you should know before drafting your estate plan.<\/p>\n

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1. A will is an important legal document \u2014 one that many adults should have.<\/h3>\n

A will, or a last will and testament, is a legal document that goes through the probate court, which is the part of the judicial system that handles wills and estates. This document dictates to the court how and to whom you would like your property and other assets to be distributed after your death. It\u2019s just one of four ways that assets transfer title after a death.<\/p>\n

Having a will ensures that your loved ones are protected. It prevents family disputes, clears up any confusion and guarantees your assets go to the people you want most to have them. Additionally, it provides your family with guidance and peace of mind, helping them honor your wishes during a challenging time.<\/p>\n