Your legal will lets you determine how you want to pass on and distribute your personal property after you die. This document also serves several other important purposes.
According to the American Bar Association, you can designate a legal guardian for your children in your will. This person will take over the care and responsibility of your children if you die. As you put together your will, the following factors can help you pick an optimal guardian for your children.
Consider age
Your parents may be your first choice for taking guardianship of your children. However, they may not be the ideal choice to become your children’s guardian if they have health problems or are advancing in age.
Take values into account
While you create your estate plan and pick a guardian, consider who will raise your children with similar values to yours. For example, if you want your children to grow up with certain religious beliefs, choose a guardian who will foster these morals.
Think about naming multiple guardians
You do not have to pick just one guardian for your children. For instance, you can pick a certain guardian to care for your children up to a certain age when another guardian will take over. You should also consider naming a backup guardian in your will.
Choosing a guardian for your children can feel like an overwhelming decision. Remember that you can always update your will later on if you change your mind and want to alter your guardianship plan.
