5 Simple Steps To Your Free Wisconsin Will

There comes a time in every adult's life when planning for the future is no longer just a suggestion but a necessity. It's about ensuring your wishes are honored, your assets are distributed as you see fit, and your loved ones are protected should something happen to you. This brings us to an essential aspect of estate planning: creating a will. 📜 While the process can seem daunting, it's now simpler than ever in Wisconsin, thanks to platforms like FreeWill.com. Here's how you can safeguard your future in just five easy steps.

Why You Need a Will 🏡

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Before diving into the how, let's consider why you should even bother:

• Asset Distribution: You can decide who gets what, avoiding state laws deciding for you.
• Avoiding Disputes: A clear will can mitigate potential family conflicts over your estate.
• Guardianship for Minors: If you have children, your will can appoint their guardian, ensuring they're cared for by someone you trust.

Step 1: Understand Your Options

Starting your will can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options is the first step towards peace of mind:

• Online Will Services: Websites like FreeWill.com make creating a will straightforward, cost-effective, and private.
• Attorney-Drafted Will: If your estate is complex, consulting with an estate planning attorney can provide tailored solutions.

Comparing Options

<table> <thead> <tr> <th>Method</th> <th>Cost</th> <th>Complexity</th> <th>Privacy</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Online Services</td> <td>$0 to Low Cost</td> <td>Simple to Moderate</td> <td>High</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Attorney</td> <td>High</td> <td>High</td> <td>Moderate to High</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>

<p class="pro-note">📚 Note: Online services are excellent for straightforward estates, but if your affairs are complex or you need personalized legal advice, an attorney might be the better route.</p>

Step 2: Gather Your Information 🗄️

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You'll need to gather specific information to complete your will:

• Assets: List all your properties, bank accounts, investments, and other valuables.
• Beneficiaries: Who do you want to inherit your assets?
• Executor: Someone you trust to manage the distribution of your estate.

Key Documents

• Bank statements
• Property deeds
• Insurance policies
• List of digital assets (e.g., online accounts, cryptocurrency)

<p class="pro-note">🔎 Note: Ensure your list is as comprehensive as possible; this reduces the chance of assets being overlooked.</p>

Step 3: Access FreeWill.com

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Now, let's get to the practical part:

1. Visit FreeWill.com: Create an account if you don't have one.
2. Start a Will: Navigate to the will-making section.
3. Answer Questions: The platform will guide you through a series of questions to gather your estate planning needs.

Walkthrough

• Personal Details: Enter your name, address, and basic information.
• Family Information: List your spouse, children, and potential guardians for your children if applicable.
• Beneficiaries: Specify who gets what, with an easy drag-and-drop interface.
• Executor: Choose and inform your executor of your decision.

Step 4: Review and Finalize ⚖️

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Your will isn't finished until you've:

• Reviewed: Go through your will to ensure all information is correct.
• Understand: Understand the implications of your decisions. If unsure, consider legal advice.
• Sign: Your will must be signed in the presence of witnesses to be legally valid in Wisconsin.

Witnesses

• Number of Witnesses: At least two competent adults, not beneficiaries, must witness your signature.
• Location: All parties should be in the same room at the time of signing.

Step 5: Store Your Will Safely 🔐

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Once your will is complete:

• Keep it Safe: Store the original in a secure place like a safe deposit box or fireproof safe at home.
• Notify Executor: Let your chosen executor know where they can find your will after your passing.
• Review Regularly: Life changes; ensure your will reflects your current wishes.

Storage Options

• Safe Deposit Box: Safe but can be less accessible if you're the only one with access.
• Home Safe: Convenient but make sure it's fireproof and burglar-proof.
• With Attorney: Some people store wills with their estate planning attorney for easy access.

Creating a will might not be the most pleasant task, but it's a gift to your loved ones, providing clarity and reducing potential strife during an already difficult time. Wisconsin has made this process easier through online services, empowering you to take control of your legacy from the comfort of your home.

By following these steps, you've ensured that your wishes will be honored, your assets distributed as you intend, and your loved ones looked after, all without the hefty price tag traditionally associated with estate planning.

Now, your future is secured, and your peace of mind is restored, knowing that your legacy will continue as you've planned. 🎯💼

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is a will from FreeWill.com legally binding in Wisconsin?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, if properly executed, meaning it meets the legal requirements for signatures and witnesses.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I change my will after I've created it?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely. You can create a new will or an amendment (called a codicil) to reflect changes in your circumstances.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What happens if I die without a will in Wisconsin?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Your estate will be distributed according to Wisconsin's intestacy laws, which might not align with your wishes.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>