Although necessary, matters of estate planning are rarely easy to think about. After all, who really wants to contemplate their own death—or the passing of a spouse or loved one? The discomfort is completely understandable.
Still, avoiding the topic doesn’t make it go away.
In fact, it's estimated that 67% of Americans die without a valid Last Will and Testament. That’s two-thirds of people leaving their families behind without clear instructions or intentions.
You might think, “Well, the courts will sort it out.” And you're right—they will. But you might not like how.
When someone dies intestate (without a will), the state’s probate court steps in. There’s a detailed legal protocol for asset distribution… but it’s highly unlikely to match what you would have chosen for your loved ones. It’s a cold, impersonal process. And it can easily fracture families who are already grieving.
Let’s be honest—this is not a good solution.
The Answer Is Simple: Make a Will
I’ll be transparent with you. Even after over 30 years as a financial advisor, my wife and I still don’t have a will completed. That’s right. We’re in the same boat as many of you.
So let’s make this fun: consider this a challenge. How many of you can get a will done before I do? Let’s race toward peace of mind.
The Strange Things I've Seen…
In my decades of helping clients through asset transfers and inheritance issues, I’ve seen plenty—some inspiring, others heartbreaking.
Money is a powerful force. It has a way of magnifying existing family dynamics—sometimes in beautiful ways, but too often in painful ones.
I’ve seen:
•Brothers never speak again due to a vague or quirky stipulation in a will.
•Families torn apart over a modest inheritance.
•Long-standing grudges resurface at the reading of a will.
•Trusts misused, misinterpreted, or ignored.
It’s hard to witness. And it always leaves me with the same question: What’s more important—relationships or money? Is blood thicker than water—or is it just not as thick as gold?
A Gift to Your Loved Ones
Time spent crafting a thoughtful, intentional will is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your loved ones. It prevents confusion, reduces legal battles, and—most importantly—preserves relationships.
If it’s within your power to ensure a smooth and fair transition of your assets—will you?
If you could speak to your family from the grave—what would you say?
And if you’re the one reading a will someday, faced with an unexpected twist or slight, can you pause… take a breath… and choose family over frustration?
As the Chinese Emperor in Disney’s Mulan so wisely said:
“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.”
Let’s Talk
At HPK Provident Advisors, we’re ready to walk with you through these difficult but important conversations. Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It can be empowering—and even healing.
Let’s make sure your legacy reflects who you truly are.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted