As the year draws to a close, many families in Raleigh and throughout North Carolina reflect on the past year and begin setting priorities for the year ahead. One of the most important, and often overlooked, resolutions you can make is to create or update your will before the new year.
At NC Wills and Trusts, we help individuals and families put clear, legally sound estate plans in place so they can move into the new year with confidence and peace of mind.
Why the End of the Year Is the Right Time to Make or Update a Will
Reflecting on Life Changes
The end of the year naturally invites reflection. Over the past year, you may have experienced major life events such as:
- Marriage or divorce
- The birth or adoption of a child or grandchild
- Purchasing a home or other significant assets
- Changes in health or financial circumstances
Any of these events can make an existing will outdated or inadequate. Reviewing your estate plan now ensures it reflects your current wishes and family dynamics.
What Happens in North Carolina If You Die Without a Will
In North Carolina, if you pass away without a valid will, your estate is distributed according to state intestacy laws, not your personal wishes. This can lead to outcomes that may surprise families, including:
- Assets being divided in ways you did not intend
- No opportunity to choose who manages your estate
- Court involvement and delays for your loved ones
- Increased stress and potential family conflict
A properly drafted will allows you to control how your property is distributed and who will be responsible for carrying out your wishes.
Important North Carolina Will Requirements
North Carolina law has specific requirements for a will to be valid, including:
- The will must be in writing
- It must be signed by the person making the will
- It must be witnessed by at least two competent witnesses
Mistakes or informal documents may result in the will being challenged or rejected by the court. Working with an experienced North Carolina estate planning attorney helps ensure your will meets all legal requirements and clearly reflects your intentions.
Why Wills Are Especially Important for Families
For families with minor children, a will plays a critical role in naming a guardian. Without this designation, the court decides who will care for your children if something happens to you.
A will can also:
- Provide financial protection for children and dependents
- Clarify how family heirlooms and personal items are distributed
- Reduce the likelihood of disputes among family members
Starting the new year with these decisions already made provides stability and reassurance for the entire family.
Reviewing an Existing Will Before the New Year
If you already have a will, the end of the year is an excellent time to review it. You should consider updating your will if:
- Beneficiaries have changed
- An executor is no longer appropriate
- Assets have been bought or sold
- Your goals for your estate have evolved
An outdated will can be almost as problematic as having no will at all.
Make Estate Planning Part of Your New Year’s Resolution
Creating or updating a will is one of the most meaningful steps you can take to protect your loved ones. Rather than putting it off another year, taking action now allows you to begin the new year knowing your affairs are in order.
At NC Wills and Trusts, we guide Raleigh-area families through the estate planning process with clarity, care, and attention to North Carolina law.
Schedule a Will Consultation Today
If you are ready to make a will or update an existing one before the new year, we are here to help. Call NC Wills and Trusts at 919-759-6353 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your family and your future.
Starting the new year prepared is one of the smartest resolutions you can make.