Why Everyone Needs a Will: Understanding the Basics
Most of us shy away from conversations about Wills, assuming they are complicated or unnecessary. The truth is, making a Will is one of the most important steps you can take to secure your family’s future and avoid unnecessary legal hassles.
This is the first post in a series about Wills—why they matter, what goes into them, and how to create one without stress. Let’s start with the basics. I have also provided a Template in Word format for a Will, at the end of the 5th post. If you need, here is the link , but I would still recommend that you go through these posts, so that you understand the logic for the template.
What is a Will?
A Will is a legal document that records how you want your assets—money, property, investments, or other possessions—distributed after your death.
Think of it as your 'voice', ensuring that:
- Your wishes are respected.
- Your loved ones face minimum paperwork.
- Your estate is settled smoothly, without confusion or disputes.
Who Should Make a Will?
The simple answer: anyone with assets.
If you earn an income, own property, or have movable assets such as bank accounts, investments, or even inherited items, you should make a Will.
- Young earners: The moment you start earning, it’s worth making a Will.
- Parents: Encourage your children to do the same once they begin their careers, especially since they stand to inherit from you.
- Homemakers: Even if you don’t own assets right now, you may inherit property, jewellery, or investments from your parents or in-laws. These need to be included in a Will.
When I was a Naval Aviator, every new posting required me to submit a Will to my unit office. That’s where I truly understood its importance.
Why Make a Will?
A Will gives you control over how your assets are managed after your lifetime. Without it, the law decides for you—and the process can be messy.
Some key reasons to make one:
- Protects your loved ones from unnecessary legal and financial complications.
- A Will lets you appoint guardians for minor children.
- Ensures digital assets (emails, online accounts, investments) are handled properly.
- Prevents disputes by clearly defining who gets what.
Without a Will, your estate is divided according to the laws of succession, not your wishes. This often results in multiple legal heirs. Because of this, often multiple signatures are required on documents and there is endless paperwork. Your family deserves better than all this.
Is It Difficult to Make a Will?
Not at all. In fact, it can be surprisingly simple.
At its most basic, a Will is a handwritten note expressing how you want your assets distributed. To make it legally valid:
- Sign it in the presence of two witnesses (who are not beneficiaries).
- Get a doctor’s attestation of mental fitness (especially important for senior citizens or those with medical conditions).
- Write it on legal-sized paper—ledger or greenish paper lasts longer, but it’s not mandatory – you can use standard printing paper too.
That’s it. You don’t need complicated paperwork, expensive lawyers, or fancy legal language.
Common Excuses for Not Making a Will
Despite how simple it is, many people still avoid writing a Will. Here are some common excuses—and why they don’t stand up:
- “My
spouse automatically inherits everything.”
Not true. Under Hindu Succession Law, for example, assets are divided among all Class 1 heirs, which includes your spouse, children, and mother. - “It’s
too expensive or too much effort.”
Wrong again. Writing a Will costs nothing. Registering it may cost only a two or three thousand rupees. - “Why
worry? I won’t take anything with me.”
True, but without a Will, you’re leaving behind chaos and stress for your family. - “My
children are pressuring me—they must be after my money.”
Suspicion often delays Wills, but remember, a Will takes effect only after you pass away. You remain the owner of your assets while you are alive. - “If
I leave my home to my children, I’ll be thrown out.”
Another misconception. A Will transfers property only after death. Never transfer ownership of your house during your lifetime because this can cause problems—including being asked to vacate your own home. - “Nothing
will happen to me, I’m fine.”
Life is unpredictable. A Will is about being prepared, not pessimistic. - “It
has to be on stamp paper or registered.”
False. A Will needs to be written only on plain paper. Registration is optional but recommended.
Excuses only delay the inevitable—and make things harder for your loved ones.
Final Thoughts
Making a Will is not about wealth; it’s about responsibility. Whether you’re young or old, salaried or self-employed, a homemaker or a business owner—you owe it to your loved ones to leave behind clarity, not confusion.
In the next part of this series, we’ll look at nominations, beneficiaries, and the key terms you should understand before drafting your Will.
Take the first step today. It’s easier than you think.
The second part is titled, “Key terms in Making a Will- Nominations Beneficiaries Part 2 of 5” and the link is here https://polarispilot.blogspot.com/2025/09/key-terms-in-making-will-nominations.html
This is part of a 5 page series of posts. The complete indexed list of links is below.
Make your Will now – Part 1 of 5
Key terms in Making a Will- Nominations Beneficiaries Part 2of 5
Drafting a Will - Guidelines and tips Part 3 of 5
Without a Will - Burdens on your loved ones after you pass -Part 4 of 5
Living Will or Advanced Medical Directives - Post 5 of 5
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