It’s August, which means it’s National Make-A-Will Month. And while that may not sound like something to celebrate, it’s a powerful reminder that your future, and your family’s peace of mind, deserve attention.
At the Estate Planning Law Center, we’ve helped families across Central and Upstate New York take the simple yet life-changing step of creating a will. And we’ve seen firsthand what happens when people don’t.
If you’ve been putting it off, you’re not alone. But here are five very real, very human reasons why this August is the right time to get it done. We’ve also included how to make that first step simple and stress-free by attending a free workshop.
1. Life Happens, Ready or Not
We recently worked with the Murphy family in Oneida. When John passed away unexpectedly at 52, he didn’t have a will in place. His wife, Amy, was devastated and suddenly stuck navigating New York’s intestacy laws, which split his estate between her and their two teenage children. Amy had to petition the court just to access basic accounts and manage household finances.
It didn’t have to be that way.
We can’t control when life throws us a curveball. But we can control whether we’ve made a plan. A will ensures your loved ones aren’t stuck in legal limbo while they’re grieving. It puts you in control, even after you’re gone.
2. A Court Shouldn’t Be Making Family Decisions
If you die without a will, your estate enters probate under New York’s intestacy laws. That means the state decides who gets what, who becomes guardian for your minor children, and who’s in charge of your estate.
That’s exactly what happened to Linda, a single mom from Herkimer. When her sister passed suddenly, leaving two young boys behind and no legal guardianship plan, Child Protective Services stepped in. It took six months of court appearances before Linda was officially named guardian, even though she had raised the kids alongside her sister.
A written will could have named her directly and avoided that painful delay.
3. Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Wealthy
One of the biggest myths we hear is, “I don’t need a will—I don’t have enough assets.” But your home, savings, vehicle, family heirlooms, and digital accounts all need to go somewhere when you’re gone.
And it’s not just about dividing property. It’s about protecting children, honoring relationships, and avoiding stress and confusion.
We helped Michael and Tasha, a young couple from Rome, draft their first will after having their second child. They didn’t have a large estate, but they had each other, two children, and a strong desire to protect what they’d built together.
4. It Helps Prevent Family Conflict
When there’s no clear plan, even close-knit families can end up in conflict. We’ve seen siblings who haven’t spoken in years because of disagreements over a parent’s belongings. Or adult children surprised to learn their stepparent is inheriting everything.
When your wishes are spelled out clearly in a will, it eliminates confusion and reduces the chance of disputes.
Take Bill and Diane, longtime residents of Utica. When Bill passed, his well-prepared will ensured Diane would remain in the house they’d shared for 30 years, and his children from a previous marriage would receive their specific inheritances. Because everything was documented, the process was smooth and the family stayed united.
5. It’s Simpler Than You Think, And It Can Help with Medicaid Planning
A will is just one part of a bigger picture. Many people are surprised to learn that thoughtful estate planning can also protect them from the high costs of long-term care.
At Estate Planning Law Center, we work with families every day on Medicaid planning strategies that help preserve assets while still qualifying for care. Without proper planning, a nursing home stay could wipe out your life savings. But when you prepare in advance, we can help you explore legal options—such as asset protection trusts—that allow you to receive Medicaid benefits while keeping your home and other hard-earned assets safe for your spouse or children.
This is especially important in New York, where Medicaid rules can be complex and unforgiving. If long-term care is even a remote possibility in your future, planning now—not later—can make all the difference.
Join a Free Estate Planning Workshop This August
In honor of Make-A-Will Month, we’re offering several free workshops to help you take that first step without pressure or confusion.
Upcoming Dates in August:
Tuesday, August 5 | 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Tuesday, August 12 | 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Wednesday, August 20 | 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tuesday, August 26 | 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We’ll walk you through how to protect your assets, your family, and your legacy. You’re welcome to bring a spouse, adult children, or a friend. Everyone benefits from understanding how this works.
Call or text (315) 793-3622 or visit our website to reserve your seat. Workshops fill up fast, and seating is limited.
Making a will isn’t about dwelling on the worst. It’s about preparing for the future with love and responsibility. And it’s one of the most important gifts you can leave behind.
This August, take one small but meaningful step toward peace of mind. Join us for a workshop. Learn your options. Protect what matters most.
