When You Punt
The crowd wants the coach to go for it on 4th and 1. There are two common choices in this American football scenario. The coach and his offensive coordinators make a decision of whether to go for the first down or punt the ball.
In most circumstances, the special teams are sent in and the team punts the ball. It is the safer decision; less risk.
In life, there are opportunities to punt or go for the first down. Early in my practice of estate planning, I often saw individuals who started the will drafting process but would continually punt and not finalize the will. Ad hoc questions would be sent in 3-4 separate e-mails or the person would not commit to a signing date once the will was final. In Iowa, a will that is not signed is as useful as no will at all.
To curb attempts to punt, I created my Will in a Day® program. The appointment is 1.5 hours long and is designed to allow time to review all provisions of the will and provide education on the probate process. You leave the appointment with a Last Will and Testament, Healthcare Power of Attorney, Living Will, Financial Power of Attorney and written asset transfer plan.
The program is designed so the individual leaves with a signed will and the confidence that the document is drafted specific to their own situation.
Other ways I curb punting is offering online scheduling and reminders leading up to the appointment.
When it comes to securing the future for your family, run the ball - don’t punt.
