Do senior citizens need a will?

If a senior citizen has multiple children by multiple wives or a large estate, then the answer is yes. For these circumstances a formal will is an absolute must.

In the case of smaller estates. Smaller estate being house, smaller amounts in checking, savings, retirement accounts. Most states recognize the rights of the surviving spouse to the estate. Even so, accounts may be frozen, and transfer delayed while the estate is being probated in court.

A simple letter written, signed, and dated by you, the senior citizen, leaving everything to your spouse is better than nothing.

Even better if the letter is notarized by a public official.

Even better, there are offices which specialize in legal forms. No legal advice may be given there. Fill out the forms and have them notarized.

Even better, look in the phone book and newspaper. There are lawyers which will draw up wills for simple estates for real reaonable prices.

Remember that the will is not for you, the senior citizen. You will be gone! The purpose of the will is to protect the surviving spouse.

Remember also that each spouse should have a will drawn.