5 Myths About Making a Will (And the Real Scoop You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner)
Let’s be honest—making a Will isn’t exactly at the top of anyone’s “fun things to do” list. Most of us know we should have one, but we drag our feet. Maybe we think we don’t need one yet, or perhaps we picture it as some daunting, time-consuming nightmare. Spoiler alert: it’s not as bad as you think!
Wills aren’t just for rich old folks with sprawling estates—they’re for anyone who wants a say in what happens after they’re gone. Ready to ditch the excuses? Let’s bust five big myths about Wills and sprinkle some truth on top.
Myth #1: “I Don’t Need a Will—I’m Not Rolling in Cash.”
The Truth: A Will isn’t about flexing your fortune—it’s about calling the shots.
You don’t need a yacht or a private jet to justify a Will. It’s less about how much you have and more about who gets it. Your beat-up couch, that funky lamp you love, your savings account—who do you want to inherit them? A Will lets you decide. Plus, it’s where you name who takes care of your kids or even your furry friends. Skip the Will, and the government swoops in to play decision-maker. Spoiler: they’re not great at guessing what you’d want.
Myth #2: “I’m Too Young to Worry About a Will.”
The Truth: Age is just a number— adulthood is what counts.
Think Wills are only for gray-haired grandparents? Think again. Life’s a wild card, and accidents don’t check your birth year. If you’re over 18, a Will saves your loved ones from a legal mess if the unexpected happens. Got kids? It’s huge—you get to pick their guardian. Without a Will, a judge (who doesn’t know you or your family) decides where they end up. Yikes, right?
Myth #3: “Making a Will Costs a Fortune and Takes Forever.”
The Truth: Nope—it can be quick, cheap, and painless.
Old-school Will-making might’ve meant stuffy lawyer offices, fat bills, and weeks of waiting. But welcome to 2025! You can whip up a legit Will online in about the time it takes to binge an episode of your favorite show—20 minutes, tops. Comfy pajamas optional. Sure, if your life’s a financial puzzle (think multiple properties or a business), a lawyer’s still a smart move. But for most of us? Online Wills are the easy, wallet-friendly win.
Myth #4: “If I Die Without a Will, My Family Gets Everything Anyway.”
The Truth: Not necessarily—and it may not be in the way you’d want.
In Canada, if you pass away without a Will, provincial intestacy laws decide who gets what. In most cases, your family will inherit your assets, but not necessarily in the shares or percentages you would have chosen. Your spouse and children may have to split the estate in a way that could be complicated or unfair.
It gets even trickier if minors are involved. Without a Will, a government agency may step in to manage their inheritance until they reach adulthood, which can create delays and added complexity.
And if you have no close relatives? Your assets could go to distant family members you barely know—or, if no heirs are found, the government keeps everything.
A Will ensures your assets go where you want them to, whether that’s to family, friends, or a charity you care about.
Myth #5: “Once My Will’s Done, I’m Set for Life.”
The Truth: Life changes, and your Will should too.
A Will isn’t a “one and done” deal—it’s more like a living snapshot of your wishes. Marriage? Divorce? New baby? Big purchase? Time to tweak it. Maybe you decide your sister shouldn’t inherit that antique vase after all (sorry, sis). Experts say give it a once-over every few years or after any major life shake-up. Keep it fresh, and it’ll keep working for you.
The Bottom Line
Making a Will isn’t about being rich, old, or dramatic—it’s about peace of mind. It’s your chance to look out for the people (and pets!) you love, steer your stuff where you want it, and leave clear instructions for when you’re not around to explain.
And here’s the cherry on top: it’s never been simpler to get started. So why wait? Grab a coffee, spend a few minutes today, and check it off your list. Your loved ones—and your future self—will be so glad you did.
