Choosing the Best Value Will Writing Service
Creating a legally binding will is one of the most important financial documents you’ll ever write. Your will dictates what happens to your money, property, and possessions after your death. It relieves your loved ones of stress and confusion during what is likely the most difficult time in their lives. Given the significance of this document, you want to ensure it’s done right the first time.
While you can certainly draft your own will, most people opt to use the services of a professional will writer. A qualified solicitor or attorney can guide you through the legal requirements and language to make sure your instructions are interpreted accurately. They can also advise you on any tax implications, inheritance issues, or other complex matters related to estate settlement.
Professional will writing services can vary greatly in price. Some charge by the hour while others offer flat fees. Pricing is impacted by factors like complexity of the estate, number of beneficiaries, assets involved, and expert credentials of the preparer. It’s easy to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on will creation.
While a more costly option may seem like a guarantee of quality work, the reality is you often pay more for the provider and their credentials than you do for the actual legal document itself. A cheaper service doesn’t necessarily mean poor service or an invalid will either. There are definitely ways to write a legally sound will without breaking the bank.
Here are some tips for finding the best value will writing service:
Compare Online Prices and Discounts
The internet has made shopping around for legal services much easier. Reputable companies often post standardized price lists for basic will packages online. Look for any introductory discounts, coupon codes, or membership perks too that can lower the final cost. Some may charge less during certain times of the year in slower seasons as well. Be sure any online quote includes all foreseeable fees upfront though to avoid surprises later.
Inquire About Flat Fee Packages
Rather than hourly billing, many firms now offer affordable flat fee bundles for common will scenarios. A basic estate with a house and some savings may have a package priced at under $500 complete. Prices remain the same regardless of preparation time involved. Check if simpler needs like naming guardians for minor children qualify. Make sure the package covers all typical services like review meetings and storage of original documents too.
Use Law Student or Paralegal Assistance
Law schools and programs sometimes provide affordable will-drafting clinics run by students under attorney supervision. Expect individual attention for just $50-$150 total. Alternatively, many independent attorneys have paralegals on staff who can prepare standard wills at lower hourly rates than a full lawyer. The document may not be reviewed line-by-line by a named partner but would still have legal authority. Just be sure an accredited attorney is available if questions arise later.
Ask About Non-Profit Legal Services
Community organizations across the country provide reduced-cost or free basic legal aid to qualifying individuals. United Way and state bar associations commonly sponsor programs catering to low-income residents. Local law schools may host volunteer clinics too. Income thresholds are fairly high, allowing some middle-income families to benefit. Be prepared to share financial records as part of an application process but the document services are worthwhile if available in your region.
Create an Online DIY Will
Websites like Rocket Lawyer and LegalZoom offer do-it-yourself online will kits for under $100 total. Answer a questionnaire about assets, beneficiaries, and guardians; then the site generates state-specific templates to download and print. While not fully customized legal advice, these digital forms meet basic needs for many unmarried individuals with simple estates. Of course, an in-person consultation is better for complex family matters but DIY can save money for simple situations. Just be sure to have the documents legally witnessed and notarized afterwards.
Work With a Solo Attorney
Rather than big national firms, explore solo law practices or smaller local firms. Since overhead costs are lower, rates may reflect that savings. Look for estate planning specialists advertising straightforward will packages including all required meetings and drafts for $300-$500 total. While still licensed attorneys, their individualized service comes at a lower price point. Make sure whoever prepares the document is fully accredited though.
Negotiate Discounts With Retirement Communities
Continuing care retirement communities often employ on-staff attorneys to provide basic will preparation as an extra amenity for residents. Prices are negotiable and sometimes waived entirely for those on fixed incomes who qualify for financial aid programs. There’s certainty that documents comply with the retirement community’s trust requirements too. Homeowner’s associations can offer similar perks at times. Being proactive pays off for discounts.
As you can see, it’s certainly possible to write an effective last will and testament without spending more than absolutely necessary. While no one method is right for every situation, exploring lower-cost options gives budget-conscious families more flexibility in estate planning. With diligence, compare rates and don’t settle on the first quote provided. Focus foremost on credibility of the individual preparing documents and make sure appropriate safeguards exist to witness and file paperwork properly according to state regulations. Establishing clear wishes through an affordable yet legally binding will brings much deserved peace of mind.
Andrew Stroud