I’m alive and well! Why bother with a will?

Spending time with death related issues while you are healthy and alive may sound morbid, but it may also be one of the most important things you ever do to prevent a lot of sorrow and tears for your family and loved ones.

Your last will and testament could literally be your “legacy” for those you leave behind; while the lack of one could be the cause of devastation and frustration to those very same people you care for.

If a person passes away without a valid will, that person’s property will be divided in accordance to the Intestate Succession Act. This implies that the deceased’s estate will be divided equally between his/her spouse and children. If there is no spouse or children, the deceased’s estate will be divided among his/her other relatives. In the case where there are no family members the estate will be awarded to the government.

Drawing up a will allows you the opportunity to provide for your loved ones according to your discretion and ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Creating a will also include assigning guardians to minors and appointing an executor to ensure that your wishes are carried out.

The following requirements need to be met to ensure that your will is valid:

• The will must be in writing

• Two people older than 14 years of age must witness the drafting of the will (these witnesses cannot be beneficiaries of the will)

• You must sign every page of your will. The last page has to be signed in the presence of the witnesses; and

• The witnesses must also sign every page of the will

Creating a last will and testament can ensure that your loved ones are protected and provided when you pass away.

There is no time like the present! Don’t delay drafting your last will and testament.

It may be the best thing you have ever done for your family.