ARAG Offers Free Estate Planning Guide

DES MOINES, Iowa, May 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly two-thirds of Americans don't have a Will, according to the newest research provided by ARAG^®, a global provider of legal solutions. ¹ Among those without a Will, nearly 50 percent felt "it wasn't important" – either because they had no children, didn't have a lot of money, or believed it was enough to simply tell friends and family their final wishes. ¹

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"Contrary to this belief,  it's actually as, if not more, important for people without children or a large bank account to have a Will, as well as advance directives, like a Living Will," says David Murray, President and CEO of ARAG. "When you have a Will your property goes where you say it will go. Without one, assets will be distributed according to state laws. The amount invested in creating a Will is minimal compared to what you may give up by having the state decide for you."

ARAG believes everyone should have access to legal assistance, not just those who can afford it. That's why ARAG offers its free estate planning guidebook, "Building Your Legacy." This high-level guide explains what documents are available, what they do and how they work.  In addition to covering the basics on Wills, the guide explains important health care documents like a Living Will and Health Care Power of Attorney. Whether you're temporarily unconscious after an accident, or slip into a coma after a long-term illness, these documents tell medical personnel your health care preferences.

"This not only means decisions can be made more quickly," says Murray, "but it keeps your family from having to wonder what you would really want. If you don't have children – or a surviving spouse or other family – these documents are even more important to ensure your intentions are known – and honored."

This free offer coincides with National Law Day, as well as ARAG's fortieth anniversary in the United States. National Law Day is observed annually on May 1 to commemorate the rule of law, the judiciary and its place in American society.  In 1958 President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the first Law Day. This year's theme "Realizing the Dream: Equality for All," reflects on the importance of equality under the law and the role that it plays in ensuring our freedom. Americans are encouraged to participate in the various Law Day activities in their communities. Please call your local chapter of the American Bar Association for the dates, times and places.

¹ "Perspectives on Wills," conducted by ARAG, April 2013

About ARAG

ARAG ^® (www.ARAGgroup.com) provides affordable legal solutions through trusted service to help people protect what matters most.

ARAG is a world leader in legal protection services. The company has an international premium base of nearly $2 billion and protects 15.5 million individuals and their families.

ARAG's North American headquarters are based in Des Moines, Iowa. We are committed to providing our customers a choice of legal solutions to help them live a life full of opportunities. We demonstrate expertise, integrity and passion in everything we do to serve our customers and make a positive difference in our community.

In honor of ARAG's outstanding customer service, we've earned both a Top 100 Call Center title (2011-12) and the prestigious Center of Excellence Award for an unprecedented six years (2007-2012).  Additionally, ARAG is recognized as a Best Places to Work in Insurance (2009-2012) by Business Insurance Magazine. This esteemed honor is based on workplace culture and employee feedback.

For more news and information about ARAG, visit ARAGgroup.com.

Media Contact

Jen Harken, ARAG Corporate Communications Manager
515-237-0271 or [email protected]

SOURCE ARAG