September 7th, 2003

Will power:
(see online story here)

You don't need a lawyer to bequeath your worldly goods.

You may not be so rich that hordes are lining up waiting for you to croak, but you probably have something worth accounting for: a home, a car, jewelry, children. Time was, if you had enough valuable possessions that you were worried about who'd inherit them, you had a family lawyer draw up a will. But according to some estimates, 70% of American adults today don't have a will.

If you're among them, perhaps you fear the legal costs, which can run anywhere from $300 to $1,000. In that case, you'll be relieved to learn there are several Web sites where you can customize a will quickly and easily. You don't even have to speak to a lawyer.

At Buildawill.com, you'll find helpful answers to questions such as, What is probate? Drafting your will begins with an interview much like the one a lawyer would conduct (except you do the typing) and takes about 30 minutes. This is not some hurried note jotted as the ocean liner takes a nose dive; it's a carefully considered will with your particular needs in mind. Still have a few details to work out? Nothing is set in stone until you pay your $19.95. Then you can download the will right away in Adobe Acrobat format.

Also see the USA Weekend Magazine and the USA TODAY Reviews

If you are ready to begin your Will, just click the button above!