August is National Make-A-Will Month, a timely reminder that planning for the future is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your loved ones. While many people recognize the importance of having a will, millions of Americans still do not have one in place. Even among those who do, many have not reviewed or updated it in years. 

A will is more than a legal document. It is an opportunity to communicate your wishes, protect the people you love and create a plan that reflects your values. Having an up-to-date estate plan can help reduce uncertainty for your family, provide peace of mind and ensure your legacy is carried forward in the way you intend. 

Estate planning also provides an opportunity to think about the causes that have shaped your life. Many individuals choose to include a charitable gift in their will or other estate plans to support organizations that have made a meaningful difference for their family or community. These gifts can help strengthen healthcare for future generations while allowing you to care for your loved ones first. 

If you already have a will in place, National Make-A-Will Month serves as a timely reminder to review it and ensure it still reflects your current wishes, priorities and circumstances. 

Five Signs It is Time to Update Your Will 

1. Your family has grown or changed. Marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, welcoming grandchildren or the loss of a loved one can all affect how you want your assets distributed and your loved ones provided for. 

2. Your financial situation has changed. Experiencing significant changes in your assets, such as purchasing a home, retiring, starting a business or receiving an inheritance, can all affect how your estate is structured and distributed. 

3. You’ve moved to another state. Estate planning laws can vary by state. Reviewing your documents with an attorney can help ensure your will continues to reflect your wishes and follows current state laws. 

4. It has been more than three to five years since you reviewed your will. Even if your circumstances have not changed, periodic reviews can account for changes in estate planning laws, tax considerations and your personal priorities. 

5. Your philanthropic priorities have evolved. The organizations that have touched your life often become even more meaningful over time. Updating your estate plan gives you the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy by supporting causes that reflect your values while continuing to care for those you love. 

Remember that your will is only one part of a comprehensive estate plan. It is also important to review beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other financial assets, as these often pass directly to the individuals or organizations you have named and are not controlled by your will. 

The good news is that estate planning does not have to be overwhelming. Taking the first step, whether creating your will for the first time or updating an existing one can provide confidence that your wishes will be honored and your loved ones will be cared for.  

At Wellstar Foundation, we understand that these decisions are deeply personal. Whether you are beginning to think about estate planning or exploring ways to create a lasting legacy through philanthropy, you do not have to navigate the process alone. The decisions you make today can help ensure exceptional care is available for generations to come. Whenever you are ready, we are here to support you every step of the way. 

For questions, please reach out to Brittany Saadiq, CFRE- Executive Director, Principal Gifts at Brittany.Saadiq@wellstar.org or 470-956-0963.