Why You Need a Will
September 2025

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A Will is a simple document that tells the world:

  • Who should get your belongings
  • Who will care for your children (if under 18)
  • Who should carry out your final wishes

Without one, Georgia state law decides for you. And that may not match what you want.

Key People in Your Will:

Executor: This person manages everything after you’re gone: files paperwork, pays debts, and distributes assets. Choose someone trustworthy and organized. Add a backup just in case.

Beneficiaries: These are the people or organizations who will receive your property or money.

  • Primary beneficiary: The first person (or people) to receive your gift
  • Secondary beneficiary: The backup, if the primary person can’t receive it

Example: “I leave my savings to my sister, and if she cannot receive it, to my niece.

ERSGA Reminder: Designate Your Pension Beneficiary Online

If you’re an active ERSGA member, you must designate your pension beneficiary through your secure account. Your will does not override your ERSGA beneficiary!

➡️ Log into your ERSGA account
➡️ Click “View My Beneficiaries”
➡️ Make updates as needed

Peach State Reserves (PSR) Reminder: Designate Your Pension Beneficiary Online

Add GaBreeze for those beneficiaries

How to Make a Will in Georgia

Option 1: Do-It-Yourself (Not recommended but better than nothing)
You can handwrite or type your Will, but it must be:

  • Signed
  • Witnessed by two people
  • Notarized

Option 2: Online Tools (Recommend with research, and some are free and very easy to use)
Use a reputable, Georgia-compliant platform like:

  • FreeWill
  • Trust & Will
  • LegalZoom

Option 3: Hire an Attorney (Best for Complex Estates)

  • When to choose this: If you have multiple assets (homes, retirement accounts, children from different marriages, small businesses, etc.), an attorney can ensure your will is detailed and legally airtight.
  • Cost: Varies widely, but many attorneys offer flat fees for basic wills.
  • Tip: Look for an estate planning attorney who understands Georgia probate laws.

Meaningful & Loving Things to Include in Your Will

(Add these as companion notes, letters, videos, or documents stored alongside your legal will)

1. Record a Personal Video Message
Let your loved ones see and hear you one more time. Share your love, memories, dreams for their future, or even tell them how much they meant to you.

2. Write Legacy Letters
Personal letters to your children, spouse, siblings, or dear friends—full of affirmation, humor, and life wisdom. These can be tucked into your will or given after your passing.

3. Include Labeled Photos or Memory Books
Help preserve your family’s story by passing along photos with written memories. This transforms “old pictures” into treasured family history.

4. Explain the Meaning of Heirlooms
Include handwritten or typed notes explaining why items matter: “This was my mother’s locket—she wore it every day while raising us.” It turns objects into legacy.

5. Suggest a Playlist or Favorite Music
You might include songs that represent your spirit, your memories, or that you want played at your celebration of life.

6. Share Family Traditions, Recipes, or Rituals
Make a list of the traditions you hope will carry on—holiday rituals, Sunday dinners, or even “banana bread for birthdays.” Include family recipes too!

7. Write or Contribute to Your Own Obituary
Why? Because you know your life better than anyone else—and you may want to highlight what you valued most.

You can include:

  • Where you were born and raised
  • A brief timeline of meaningful milestones (family, career, education)
  • Volunteerism, military service, religious faith, or special causes
  • Your proudest achievements
  • What made you you (your humor, your phrases, your quirks)
  • The people who meant the most to you
  • Your final message or a favorite quote

“You don’t have to write the whole thing—just enough to make sure the story told is true to you.”

Bonus tip: You can even write two versions:

  • A formal one for publication
  • A heartfelt or humorous one to be read aloud at your service

How to Feel at Peace When It’s Done

By the time you finish writing your will and these companion pieces, you may feel:

  • Lighter
  • Settled
  • Grateful
  • And maybe even deeply alive

Because you’ve ensured that your voice, your values, and your love live on

Legacy Packet:

  • My Obituary Notes and favorite pics of myself
  • My Legacy Letters
  • My Heirloom List
  • My Personal Video Script
  • Family Traditions & Recipes to Pass On