It’s easy to think that making a will is something reserved for older adults who have built up a lot of savings and valuable things. However, drafting a will at an early age can be a crucial step in safeguarding your future, regardless of your financial situation. 

Take the story of Alex, a 26-year-old tech startup employee. Alex was passionate about his career and loved traveling. He had a modest savings account, a car, and a collection of sentimental items. While he thought he had plenty of time to address such matters, his unexpected death in a car accident left his family grappling with a legal problem where every solution seemed to lead to more problems. Because Alex had not made a will, his belongings were subject to state laws and family disputes, creating unnecessary stress during an already tough time. 

Alex’s situation is not unique. Many young adults, who are focused on building their careers and financial foundations, often overlook the importance of estate planning. For young adults, especially people with limited financial means, having a will can be even more critical. Especially if you want to know who gets access to bank accounts, social media accounts, clouds, even down to who gets ownership of a fur baby. 

Research shows that individuals with limited financial resources face significant legal and financial burdens when a family member dies without a will. The absence of a will often amplifies existing economic inequalities, as the costs associated with distributing assets can be prohibitive. The 2023 Vanilla State of Estate Planning Report found that families with fewer resources particularly struggle with these administrative and legal expenses, which can further destabilize their financial situation. 

Creating a will does not have to be complex or expensive. Shore Legal Access provides legal services to help those with limited financial income. By taking the time to create a will, young adults can ensure what is important to them is distributed according to their wishes, not left to the constraints of state laws or prolonged legal processes. So, whether you have significant assets or just a few personal belongings, consider making a will as a proactive step in securing your future and easing the burden on your loved ones. It is a small effort with potentially profound benefits, proving that you care about the people and possessions that matter to you.  

If you are interested in talking more about getting a will done, reach out to Shore Legal Access today.