Do You Need a Will in Your 30s? The Importance of Early Estate Planning
Many people think estate planning is something to worry about later in life, but your 30s are some of those years when everything in your life can change. From starting new families to buying your first home, it’s a time when you begin to accumulate assets. It’s a good idea to have a plan in place. While you may feel young and healthy, starting early estate planning is never a bad decision.
Why Your 30s Are a Turning Point
By the time you reach your 30s, your life is likely more complex than it was in your early 20s. A few years can make a world of difference. Many people are getting married, buying a home, starting a family, or even launching a business. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median age for first-time marriage is now around 30 for men and 28 for women. At the same time, many new parents are welcoming children, with the average age for first-time mothers now around 30 as well. These milestones mean more responsibilities, and more assets accumulated.
Your 30s are also when health considerations start to become more real. While you may still feel invincible, medical data shows that risks for conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and other chronic issues begin to rise in this decade. An unexpected accident or illness can happen to anyone, and having a plan ensures your wishes are followed if something unexpected occurs.
What an Estate Plan Covers
An estate plan is more than just a will. A will designates who receives your property after you pass away, but a full plan can include:
- Healthcare Power of Attorney. This is used to give someone authority to make medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
- Financial Power of Attorney. This is used to give someone authority to make financial decisions on your behalf.
- Guardianship designations. This allows you to nominate a person to take care of your minor children if you pass away.
- Beneficiary instructions. Regarding bank accounts, retirement funds, or life insurance.
- Trusts. To manage assets or provide long-term support for loved ones.
Without these documents, state laws will determine how your assets are distributed rather than your preferences.
The Cost of Waiting
Despite the importance, most adults still don’t have a will. According to a 2025 survey by Caring.com, “The number of Americans with a will (24% in 2025) has declined steadily from 33% of respondents in 2022”. Many say they simply haven’t “gotten around to it.” Unfortunately, waiting can leave your loved ones facing unnecessary stress, legal complications, and potential disputes if something unexpected happens.
Start Your Early Estate Planning Journey with Grand Strand Law Group
Creating a will and basic estate plan in your 30s is not about expecting the worst. It’s about protecting the people and property you care about as life evolves. Whether you are newly married, buying your first home, or starting a family, a plan gives you control of your assets and finances.
Grand Strand Law Group can guide you through every step of the process, making estate planning simple and tailored to you. Give us a call at 843.492.5422. Learn about how we can help with estate planning now or in the future.