It’s Make-A-Will Month: start yours today

August is National Make-A-Will Month—the perfect time to protect your family and assets. Use this guide to help you start—or update—your Will.

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4.5 million people covered by LegalShield
Lawyers avg 22 years of experience
Plans start at around $1/day
Established in 1972
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4.5 million people covered by LegalShield
Lawyers avg 22 years of experience
Plans start at around $1/day
Established in 1972
Save on everyday items with MEMBERPerks

It's easy to start your Will with our guided Will online experience.

By the numbers
96%
of people think a Will is important
56%
of people have a Will
81%
say it's important to have an interaction with a legal professional

*Data from LegalShield Estate Planning Survey (June 2025) of 1.018 people in the U.S., balanced by gender and age to match U.S. Census data and representing all U.S. regions.​

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Use the app or your computer to fill out a short form and tell us what kind of help you need.

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Top three mistakes when creating a Will

Want to make sure your Will is done right? This LegalShield provider lawyer shares valuable tips. In this short video you'll learn about mistakes that can make your Will invalid, cause family disputes, and lead to other legal issues. Watch and learn.

Dive deeper into estate planning law

Lawyer discussing Estate Plan and taxes with mature couple in an office
5 min read
What You Need to Know About Estate Taxes

<p>‍<strong id="">Estate Tax Explained: What Families Need to Know in 2025</strong></p><p id="">Estate planning can be confusing, especially when navigating complex tax laws. This updated guide (originally published September 3, 2020, and refreshed on July 8, 2025) breaks down what estate tax is, who it affects, and how to minimize its impact. Estate tax—often called the "death tax"—is a federal tax on a deceased person’s estate before it passes to heirs. While it typically applies only to estates over <strong id="">$13.61 million</strong> (as of 2024), understanding it is crucial for long-term wealth preservation.</p><p id="">Key distinctions are made between <strong id="">estate tax</strong>, <strong id="">inheritance tax</strong>, and <strong id="">probate tax</strong>, as well as the types of assets included in estate valuations—from real estate to life insurance. The blog also explores how state-level estate and inheritance taxes may apply, even when federal taxes do not.</p><p id="">You'll learn how estate tax is calculated, current rates (up to 40%), and which states impose additional taxes like Massachusetts, Oregon, and Maryland. The article also shares <strong id="">expert strategies</strong> to reduce or avoid estate taxes using tools like <strong id="">trusts</strong>, <strong id="">lifetime gifting</strong>, <strong id="">spousal exemptions</strong>, and <strong id="">life insurance planning</strong>.</p><p id="">Most importantly, the post emphasizes the value of <strong id="">professional legal help</strong> in estate planning. LegalShield offers affordable access to experienced estate attorneys who can help families create wills, manage estate tax exposure, and protect generational wealth—all starting at $26.95/month.</p><p id=""><strong id="">Top takeaways:</strong></p><ul id=""><li>Federal estate tax only affects estates above $13.61M (2024 threshold)</li><li>Most middle-income families won’t owe federal estate tax</li><li>State-level estate/inheritance taxes may still apply</li><li>Planning tools like trusts and gifting reduce tax liability</li><li>LegalShield provides accessible, affordable estate planning support</li></ul><p id=""><strong id="">Protect your family’s legacy—start planning today.</strong></p>

9 min read
Author Name
July 8, 2025

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billed annually at

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billed annually at

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billed annually at$647.46

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Frequently Asked Questions

A lawyer can help people clearly outline how their assets should be distributed after they pass away. Lawyers ensure all documents are legally sound and tailored to meet your personal and family needs. Also, they can help set up trusts, name executors, and update plans as life circumstances change, offering peace of mind and legal protection.

Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to get legal advice on any Wills and estates issues to ensure that your rights, and those of your loved ones, are protected.

Instead of paying a lawyer by the hour, you pay a small membership fee for access to a  provider law firm in your state for the legal services membership you select. Prices and coverage vary depending on the membership services you select.

Hiring lawyers the usual way can cost hundreds per hour. But with LegalShield you pay a recurring fee and get access to experienced lawyers who can help with any number of estate planning issues.

Membership applications are reviewed within 72 hours. Once approved, you can contact your lawyer and use all the perks of your membership.

For over 50 years, LegalShield has made it affordable and easy for its members to connect with its network of vetted, dedicated law firms across the United States and parts of Canada. Lawyers average 22 years of experience. Please note that LegalShield provides access to legal services offered by a network of provider law firms to its members.

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