Should I Create a Will Online?

You may be debating whether to create a will online on your own or to get professional help from an experienced estate planning attorney. 

Adults of any age will benefit both themselves and their planned beneficiaries by putting their wishes in writing. Unfortunately, “67% of Americans have no estate plan,” according to CNBC. “That means that 67% are leaving what happens to them and their assets in case of disability or death up to others, including the state.” The most common reason given by the 67% of Americans without an estate plan is that they “haven’t gotten around to it.”

Having an estate plan is both essential and necessary. Should you create an estate plan on your own online or consult with an experienced estate planning attorney? The small advantage of creating a will online is a possible lowered cost, but that is where the benefit ends, and doing so may create increased costs later.  

3 Reasons Not to Create a Will Online

Not Customized to Your Legal Needs
Those that create a will online, basically fill in blanks on a standardized form with no direction or understanding of the applicable laws. These standardized forms do not address any unique needs that individuals may have.

An experienced estate attorney will ask questions about topics that many people would not have otherwise considered and will discuss possible scenarios to ensure that an individual’s wishes are clearly stated, that their assets are fully protected, and that the administration of their estate will go smoothly.

May Not Comply With State Laws
Probate laws and procedures vary by state, and you may not understand the applicable laws including, Pennsylvania’s Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code. Every word and detail in an estate plan is essential to ensure the proper execution of your estate, and one mistake can cause major issues for the beneficiaries of your estate. Furthermore, the forms you create online must be executed, witnessed, and notarized properly, or they may be invalid.

No Ongoing Relationship
What if you have a question, your circumstances change, or you want to make a change to your will? What if your family has an issue with your will after you have passed? With an experienced estate planning attorney, you have an ongoing relationship and can speak to someone with questions or problems as they arise. A website cannot provide this unique level of service.

Should you create a will online?  The answer is no. Creating a will online can lead to more costly problems and stress for you or – more likely - your family down the road, negating any savings of money or time you may see by preparing a will online.

Qualified Estate Planning Attorneys

There are many facets of estate planning that need to be considered. Bingaman Hess’s estate planning attorneys listen to your unique goals and concerns, thoroughly review your situation, and provide a customized strategy for you. They can provide advice and offer assistance with wills, durable powers of attorney, legal guardianships, , will and trust disputes, estate administration and more.

Contact Us for Help in Creating Your Estate Plan

Are you ready to create an estate plan that ensures your wishes are followed upon your death and makes it easier for your family after you pass? Call Bingaman Hess today at 610.374.8377 or find us online.