from Ideastream Public Media: Don’t wait: Why experts say estate planning should start much earlier

Helen Rapp, staff attorney, shared insights about estate planning and the importance of wills on the March 18, 2026 episode of “Sound of Ideas” on Ideastream Public Media. Listen to the episode here.

Don’t wait: Why experts say estate planning should start much earlier

By Aya Cathey

How to write a will
We all know it's something we should do — but it's easy to put off. For many adults, estate planning, especially writing a will, gets pushed down the to-do list for another month, another year or even another decade.

In fact, many people don't begin the process until well into their 60s, sometimes after a major health scare or family change forces the conversation.

But taking the time to get your affairs in order earlier can make a meaningful difference, according to experts. It gives you more control over your decisions, your assets and how you want to care for the people you love. And just as importantly, it can ease the emotional and financial burden often placed on families during an already difficult time.

Wednesday on the "Sound of Ideas," a Northeast Ohio attorney explains what you need to know about creating a will, why it matters and how to get started.

Guest:
- Helen Rapp, Staff Attorney, Economic Justice Group, The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland

Here are resources for people interested in preparing a will:

• The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland provides free legal aid for those who qualify. Visit their site to see if you qualify.
• The Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association (CMBA) Lawyer Referral Information Service can connect you with a potential match for paid legal services. You can reach the service by phone at (216) 696-3532.
• The Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA) has estate planning forms available online that you can use to create your own documents. Visit the OSBA website and search for "law facts" for information on a variety of topics.
• Cuyahoga County Probate Court Resource Center meets with and helps unrepresented applicants navigate the Estate Administration Probate process. Call (216) 443-8769 to schedule an appointment.
• The Great Estates Program is a partnership between the Cuyahoga County Fiscal Office and the Cuyahoga County Probate Court. This program provides information and assistance to homeowners who want to transfer real estate outside of probate. Events are held throughout the year at various locations in Cuyahoga County.
• The Ohio BMV form 3811 lets you add a beneficiary to a car title.

Source: Ideastream Public Media - Don’t wait: Why experts say estate planning should start much earlier | Ideastream Public Media