August is National Make-A-Will Month, and it’s the perfect time to stop procrastinating and take charge of your future. As estate planning attorneys, we hear it all the time: “I know I should make a will, but…”
The truth is, creating or updating your will is one of the most powerful ways to protect your family, avoid unnecessary legal headaches, and save your loved ones time and money in probate court. Still putting it off? Let’s look at the top 5 excuses people use – and why they don’t hold up.
Life is unpredictable. You don’t need to be retired or wealthy to need a will. If you’re over 18 and own anything – from a car to a savings account – you need a plan.
If you have children, a will allows you to name a legal guardian. Without one, the courts will decide.
Bottom line: A will isn’t just for the elderly – it’s for anyone who cares about what happens to their loved ones and their property.
Many people underestimate the value of what they own. Even modest assets like a car, personal possessions, or a life insurance policy can trigger confusion, family conflict, or court intervention if left without clear instructions.
Did you know?
Without a will in Illinois, your estate goes through intestate probate – a court process that distributes your property based on state law, not your wishes.
Making a will is far more affordable than you think – and significantly cheaper than the cost of dying without one. Probate without a will can take months or even years, with court fees, attorney fees, and unnecessary delays draining your loved ones’ time and money.
A simple will now could save your family thousands in probate costs later.
Even the closest families can experience confusion or conflict after a death. Without a will, there’s no clear direction – and disagreements can arise about who gets what, who handles your affairs, or even who takes care of your pets.
A will makes your wishes legally binding. It eliminates uncertainty, prevents arguments, and gives your loved ones peace of mind when they need it most.
That’s exactly why we’re here. At Estate and Probate Legal Group, we guide you through the entire process, explain your options, and make it as easy and straightforward as possible.
We’ll help you create a will tailored to your needs and your family’s unique situation – so you can finally check this off your to-do list with confidence.
When you create a will, you’re doing more than just listing who gets what. You’re giving your loved ones:
Probate is expensive, stressful and time consuming. The more prepared you are, the less time and money your family will have to spend in court later.
National Make-A-Will Month is the perfect reminder that there’s no better time than now to protect what matters most. Let’s put a plan in place – so you can stop worrying and start living with peace of mind.
📞 Call Estate and Probate Legal Group today at (630) 864-5835 or
💻 Schedule a consultation online
Q: Can I write my own will in Illinois?
A: Technically, yes – but DIY wills are often challenged or invalid. A properly drafted legal will ensures your wishes are enforceable and avoids costly probate delays.
Q: What happens if I die without a will in Illinois?
A: The court follows state intestacy laws. That means your assets are distributed to relatives based on a legal formula – not your personal wishes.
Q: How often should I update my will?
A: Review your will anytime you experience a major life change – like marriage, divorce, a new child, or a move. We recommend checking it every 3–5 years.
Call (630) 864-5835 to schedule a confidential consultation
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Based in Oak Brook, proudly serving clients in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall and Will counties in Illinois
Learn More About Making A Will in Illinois
