Update your will, SGLI – It can make a big difference to your loved ones Published Oct. 5, 2010 By 87th Air Base Wing Legal Office JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Did you know, whether you think so or not, everyone has a will? The difference between someone who has a properly executed valid will and someone who does not is that if you have a valid will, you dictate how your assets will be distributed, but if you don't, the state will distribute your assets. When you have a will drafted, you can dictate exactly how items in your estate will be distributed. For example, you can designate a certain person to be the recipient of a specific item of monetary or sentimental value, or reserve a sum of money to be paid to a specific person or charity. In your will, you may also establish a guardian or trust to provide for the continued care of minor children and you can select a specific person to care for and distribute the assets of your estate upon your death. Without a valid will, the state provides very general guidelines dictating who will receive what percentage of the estate without any regard for the wishes of the individual. In addition, without the specific instructions that are contained in a will, family members are left guessing about how specific items of an estate should be distributed. This often leads to anxiety and conflict among family and friends a time when they most need support from one another. While many understand the importance of creating a will prior to deploying, people often neglect the equally important step of keeping it updated. If you have recently experienced a major event in your life, such as the birth of a child, the death of a spouse, a marriage, a divorce, or even inheriting property, you may want to have a new will drafted. Never add or cross out wording in your will on your own. When the need arises, you should contact an attorney at the legal office to review your current will and draft a new document, if needed. Another crucial step is checking to see whether your SGLI and other life insurance policies are also up-to-date. SGLI, like other life insurance benefits, is property not subject to probate. Wills typically have no effect on SGLI proceeds. SGLI proceeds will be paid to the beneficiaries named in the SGLI contract regardless of what the will says. We encourage you to ensure that your SGLI beneficiary information is current and correct. Please visit the local Military Personnel Flight (MPF) to make any necessary changes to your SGLI. Deployment is a part of military life. But if you act proactively, you can reduce the likelihood of difficulties that may be faced by you or your family. For more information, or to make an appointment, call the base legal office at (609) 754-2010. This article is for informational purposes and is not intended to constitute legal advice or counsel.