Do I need an attorney to prepare my will?

There is no need for a lawyer to draft your will for it to be valid. As long as you’re within the legal requirements of your state, you needn’t worry. You can forgo paying high legal fees by looking for free resources either online or at your local library.

A quick internet search for “estate planning” or “online wills” will provide you with either software or guidelines. You can even add your state at the end of your query to make sure you’re gathering pertinent information for where you live. You can also find will writing guides at the library.

If neither of these options works for you, contact your state’s department of aging. They’ll put you in contact with free or low-cost resources instead.

While you’re at it, look into other essential estate-planning documents. Health care and financial powers of attorney will ensure your wishes will be carried out while you’re still alive.