LegalZoom Will Maker Review: Pricing and Features

LegalZoom Will Maker Review: Pricing and Features

Creating a last will and testament is a crucial step in ensuring your assets and final wishes are protected after you’re gone. While hiring an attorney for this task can be expensive, online will-making services like LegalZoom offer a cost-effective alternative. In this article, we will review LegalZoom’s Will Maker, focusing on its pricing and features to help you determine whether it’s the right fit for your estate planning needs.

Pricing

LegalZoom provides two pricing options for its Will Maker service: a basic package and a comprehensive package. The basic package costs $89, while the comprehensive package includes additional features and costs $99.

The basic package covers the essentials of creating a legal will, including the ability to name beneficiaries, appoint an executor, and designate guardians for minor children. It also includes a year of unlimited updates to your will, ensuring you can make changes as circumstances evolve.

For those looking for a more comprehensive estate planning solution, the comprehensive package offers additional features such as a living will, healthcare power of attorney, and financial power of attorney. This package provides a more holistic approach to estate planning and is priced competitively.

Features

1. Is LegalZoom’s Will Maker service legally binding?

Yes, the wills created through LegalZoom’s Will Maker service are legally binding in all 50 states.

LegalZoom employs a team of experienced attorneys who have carefully designed the service to comply with state-specific laws. They stay up to date with changes in legislation to ensure that the wills created using their platform adhere to all legal requirements.

2. Is LegalZoom’s Will Maker service suitable for complex estate planning?

LegalZoom’s Will Maker service is best suited for individuals with relatively straightforward estates. If you have complex assets, significant wealth, or unique circumstances, it may be advisable to consult with an estate planning attorney who specializes in complex estate planning.

While LegalZoom’s service covers the essentials, it may not provide the level of customization required for more intricate estate plans. An attorney can offer personalized guidance and ensure all your needs are addressed.

3. Can I name multiple beneficiaries using LegalZoom’s Will Maker service?

Yes, LegalZoom’s Will Maker service allows you to name multiple beneficiaries. Whether you want to divide your assets equally among your children or leave specific assets to different individuals, you can specify your wishes during the document creation process.

4. Is my personal information secure when using LegalZoom?

LegalZoom takes privacy and data security seriously. They employ robust encryption and security measures to protect your personal information.

When using the Will Maker service, your information is secured using industry-standard SSL technology. Additionally, LegalZoom’s Privacy Policy outlines the measures they take to safeguard customer data and prevent unauthorized access.

5. Can I make updates to my will after it’s created?

Yes, both the basic and comprehensive packages of LegalZoom’s Will Maker service include a year of unlimited updates. This allows you to make changes to your will as needed, ensuring it remains up to date and reflective of your wishes.

After the first year, LegalZoom also offers an affordable subscription plan that provides continued access to their online platform and unlimited updates to your will.

6. What happens if I don’t update my will?

If you fail to update your will, it may become outdated and not reflect your current wishes. This can lead to confusion and potential disputes among your beneficiaries after your passing.

It is important to review your will periodically and make updates as needed, especially in the case of significant life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of children. LegalZoom’s Will Maker service provides an easy and affordable way to make necessary updates to your will.

7. Can I appoint LegalZoom as the executor of my will?

No, LegalZoom does not offer executor services. However, their platform allows you to appoint an executor of your choice. It’s advisable to choose a trusted family member or friend who is willing and capable of fulfilling the duties of an executor.

If you do not have a suitable candidate for the executor role, seeking the assistance of an experienced estate planning attorney can be helpful in finding a reliable professional executor.

8. Can LegalZoom’s Will Maker service help me with trusts?

No, LegalZoom’s Will Maker service does not cover the creation of trusts. Trusts are a more complex aspect of estate planning and may require professional guidance from an attorney specializing in trust law. If you need to establish a trust, it is recommended to consult with an attorney.

Through LegalZoom’s online platform, you can access their trust creation service, which connects you with attorneys specializing in this area of estate planning.

Conclusion

LegalZoom’s Will Maker service offers an accessible and affordable solution for individuals seeking to create a basic or comprehensive legal will. Its competitive pricing and user-friendly platform make it an attractive option for those with straightforward estates.

However, it’s crucial to evaluate your own unique circumstances and consider consulting with an attorney if you have complex assets or require additional estate planning services. Creating a will is an important decision, and it’s essential to choose the right tools and resources to ensure your final wishes are adequately protected.