August is Make-A-Will Month, and we know that the idea of creating a will can be overwhelming and confusing, especially since the specifics can vary based upon the state you live in. Some people think they might be too young to need a will or that it’s scary or morbid to think about, but that’s not true. It’s important for everyone to have a will to make sure that, should the unthinkable happen, your assets and family are taken care of.

Here are the answers to four frequently asked questions about wills in New York State:

1. What is a Will for?

• Leave your property to people or organizations
• Name a personal guardian to care for your minor children
• Name a trusted person to manage property you leave to minor children
• Name an executor, the person who makes sure the terms of your will are carried out

2. What Happens if I Die Without a Aill?

• In New York, your property will go to your closest relatives, beginning with your spouse and children
• If the court finds that you don’t have any living relatives, the state will take your property

3. How to Revoke or Change Your Will in NY:

• Physically destroy it
• Order someone else to destroy it in front of you and two other witnesses
• Making a new will

4. Steps to Create a Will in NY

1. Decide what property to include in your will
2. Decide who will inherit your property
3. Choose an executor to handle your estate
4. Choose a guardian for your children
5. Choose someone to manage children’s property
6. Make your will
7. Sign your will in front of witnesses
8. Store your will safely

If you’re a veteran interested in learning more about wills or creating one, VOC offers our Lawyer for a Day program thanks to our partnership with JustCause and the Veterans Committee of the Monroe County Bar Association. You can also receive free legal consultations and guidance for housing, benefits, family law, and more.

Lawyer for a Day is hosted on the second Wednesday of every month from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at Veterans Outreach Center, 447 South Ave., Rochester, NY 14620.

If you’re interested in including VOC in your will or as part of your overall estate plan, please contact Joan Brandenburg, Director of Planned Giving & Strategic Partnerships, at Joan.Brandenburg@vocroc.org or 585.295.7821.

Veterans Outreach Center does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice. Donors are encouraged to consult with their financial advisor, attorney, or tax professional regarding their individual circumstances and the impact of any charitable gift. All planned, legacy, or charitable giving decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified professional advisor.

Source: https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/new-york-make-will-31735.html