Recently, I watched an interview with Melissa Rivers, Joan Rivers’ daughter.  She mentioned that her mother gives her lists all the time.   I was a little surprised – not by the fact that she uses lists – but the reason for the lists.

Here’s what Melissa said…

“She always makes lists…[Joan says] ‘so when I die, I don’t want you to accidentally auction off the wrong stuff.’  So, I’m always getting lists from her…’this is good, this a is reproduction.’ A little twisted, but I understand it completely.”

I thought this was pretty interesting.  It’s definitely not the way I use a list.  Usually, I have reminders to return phone calls, finish a blog post, put oil in the car, etc.  In this case, Joan uses a list to remind her daughter to keep the good stuff!

I love this “new” take on an old way of staying on top of things.  It’s also a bit of a precursor, as well as a complement, to one of the most important documents you will ever own – a will. Did you know that 58% of adults do not have a will?¹ No one wants to have to deal with the death of a loved one, but when that person has a will, it makes the process go a little easier, at least from an administrative standpoint.

The key to having a will is that your wishes will be carried out.  If you care who gets any properties you own, you need a will. If you have children, you need a will. If you care who gets guardianship of your (young) children, you need a will.  That said, once you do get one, you have to sign it. I know it sounds obvious, but sometimes it’s the simplest things that we overlook.  If it’s not signed, then it’s like not having a will at all.

Two last things:

1.  Make copies of your signed will.
2.  Put one copy – along with copies of your insurance policies – in your in home file and keep the originals in your safe or safe deposit box.  If you use a safe deposit box, be sure it is not in your name only.² Alternate option:  give the original to your attorney.

Remember…

“Wills are not just for the rich. Regardless of how much or how little money you have, a will ensures that whatever personal belongings and assets you do have will go to family or beneficiaries you designate. Without a will, the court makes these decisions.” ~About.com

¹ Why You Need a Will · Forbes.com

² If the safe deposit box is in your name only, it will be sealed upon your death, which could delay the process. · What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Put in a Safe Deposit Box · Mint.com

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