Bottom line
In theory, you can write your own will
at no cost, but it may not hold up in
court. “In this business you often get
what you pay for,” Asa says. “Going for
the cheapest solution may not always
be the best choice, especially if your
situation is slightly more complicated –
which is often the case for expats who
may have assets in several countries.”
Jessica agrees. “Local lawyers cost
as little as $1,500 for a single will and
some law firms start at $40,000. At
Professional Wills, we are very open
about our fees, which start at $8,000
for the main will, with $3,000 for
each additional country, if needed.
There are sometimes extra charges for
complex wills.”
Planning for death is not fun. But,
failing to plan, especially once you’ve
got a family to consider, is just plain
irresponsible. You know what needs
to be done. Now, get on with it so you
can get back to having fun with your
kids, confident in knowing that you’re
doing your best for them now, and in
the future.
Going for
the cheapest
solution may
not always be
the best choice,
especially if
your situation
is slightly more
complicated
– which is
often the case
for expats
who may
have assets
in several
countries.
What are you waiting for?
It’s time to take action.
• Stop procrastinating.
With professional help,
drawing up a will is
easier, quicker and
cheaper than you think.
• Get your estate in
order. Don’t leave your
dependents with a mess.
Sort out the shoe box
of receipts; organise
your tax, mortgage/s,
insurances and pensions,
plus all necessary
account numbers, PINs
and important contact
details into one easily
accessible, but safely
stored, file.
• Think carefully about
who you want to act
as executor. It is an
important job, which can
be time-consuming.
• A guardian is needed
for any child under 18
years of age, unless they
are married. With your
partner or loved ones,
discuss who you want
to take care of your
children, and be sure to
check that the people
you select are happy
with the arrangement.
Willpower
October 2013
67
