[EmmaLeigh2882]

Originally Posted by mommamarci

Could you PM the site for one of these programs? I have looked for them and not been able to fidn them. I know a notary so it would be easy to get notarized. Thanks so much!!

Just sent you a message.
I wanted to just remind everyone that when your children's future is involved, having a lawyer help you with at least the first draft is a good idea. You wont want to find out after the fact that something was writen wrong.

A computer program could help save some money though. It can walk you through a lot of the questions and help you write down what you want done- then bring it to your lawyer to have them make sure its all legal- and a good idea. At least on the first one... Naturally as you go through different stages in life your plans for the future will change- as may some of the people you would have wanted to take care of your children should something happen.

I am really big on trusts for all children under 25. ( they dont have to be a complex trust) As a trustee for my brother's and sister's trust- even though my brother is 25 and my sister is 29 it has been alife saver. Without that trust neither of them would have a prayer. Not because they are "lets go blow it" types, but just not mature enough to handle large sums of money. So slowly I am allowing them more responsiblity with the money- without them getting it out right. There have been some major set backs as well as progress! Again- thank God for the trust! Its not unfair, or distrustful of them- its being a responsible parent! If you care about them you will protect them- even from themselves...

I suggest you at least explore more about trusts. As the person setting up the trust- you say how it works! So you may want you 18 year old to get some money every month to see how well they do with it- maybe for 2 or 3 years. ( not a large sum maybe 300-500 a month) and have the trustee watch what happends- if they see your child is wise with the money- maybe give a little more. Or if a large need comes up and the child has been smart with the money and working hard to earn more on their own ( or go to school) but just doesnt have enough money to cover the need, then the trustee can choose to help out above the set amount.

( Message me if you want a little more info on trusts)

PS- I am not a lawyer. Just a been there done that person!