If you haven’t created an estate plan yet, you’re in good company, but it’s a statistic worth changing.

Nearly 3 out of 4 Americans don’t have an estate plan in place. That means millions of families could be left making difficult decisions without clear guidance when a loved one becomes incapacitated or passes away.

August is National Make-A-Will Month, making it the perfect time to ask yourself one simple question:

If something happened to me tomorrow, would my loved ones know what to do?

Many people believe estate planning is only for retirees or those with significant wealth. The truth is, if you’re over 18, own property, have children, or simply want a say in who makes medical or financial decisions on your behalf, an estate plan is one of the most important investments you can make.

A basic estate plan often includes more than just a will. It may also include a Power of Attorney, an Advance Health Care Directive, and, depending on your situation, a trust. Together, these documents help ensure your wishes are respected and can reduce stress, delays, and uncertainty for the people you care about most.

One of the most common things I hear is, “I’ve been meaning to do that.”

Life gets busy. We all assume there will be more time. Unfortunately, emergencies don’t wait for our schedules.

As a mobile notary, I’ve had the privilege of meeting families at some of life’s most important moments. I’ve also seen the relief that comes from knowing everything is already in place. Planning ahead isn’t about expecting the worst. It’s about giving yourself and your loved ones peace of mind.

While I’m not an attorney and can’t provide legal advice, I have the opportunity to work alongside some outstanding estate planning attorneys who genuinely care about helping families protect what matters most. If you’re not sure where to begin, I’d be happy to connect you with a trusted professional who can guide you through the process.

The hardest part is often taking the first step.

If you’ve been putting off your estate plan, let this month be your reminder. Your future self and your family will be grateful that you made the decision before it became urgent.

This August, don’t just celebrate National Make-A-Will Month. Use it as the month you finally crossed it off your list.

Valuable resources:

• California Court Self-Help Guide: https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/wills-estates-probate/legal-documents

• Ridley Law – Free California Estate Planning Tools: https://ridleylawoffices.com/estate-tools/
• FreeWill: http://www.freewill.com/
• Everything Living Trusts: https://www.everythinglivingtrusts.com?aff=5307806f