Comprehensive Guide to Wills and End-of-Life Planning in Blaine
Planning your will is an important first step in making sure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. This page explains how wills work under Tennessee law, what choices are available, and how a careful approach to drafting a will can reduce stress for family members after you pass. We discuss common provisions, how property is distributed, and options for appointing guardians and executors. If you live in or near Blaine, our firm provides practical guidance to help you put a clear, legally sound will in place that reflects your priorities and reduces the likelihood of disputes.
A well-drafted will goes beyond simple property lists; it outlines your wishes for personal belongings, financial assets, and who will manage your estate. This guide covers how wills interact with other planning tools such as trusts, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney. We emphasize steps to keep your documents current as life circumstances change, including marriage, divorce, births, and relocations. Our goal is to provide straightforward information to help you make informed decisions about wills, explain typical timelines and costs, and advise on common pitfalls to avoid when preparing your estate plan in Tennessee.
Why a Will Matters for You and Your Family
Creating a will provides clarity and direction at a time when your family will likely be under emotional strain. A will identifies beneficiaries, appoints someone to manage the estate, and can name a guardian for minor children. It helps prevent uncertainty and can reduce the risk of conflicts among heirs. Properly prepared wills can also speed up the administration process and make it easier for courts to carry out your final wishes. Beyond distribution of assets, a will can address personal requests, funeral directions, and charitable gifts so that your intentions are clearly recorded and more easily followed.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Approach to Wills
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves clients in Blaine and surrounding Grainger County communities with practical legal counsel focused on estate planning and probate matters. Our approach is to listen to each client’s priorities, explain options in plain language, and draft documents that align with family and financial goals. We guide clients through common decisions such as who will serve as personal representative, how to leave property to heirs, and when to consider supplemental planning tools. Clients receive clear instructions for signing and storing documents so that their wills are valid and accessible when needed.
Understanding Wills: What They Do and What They Don’t Do
A will is a legal instrument that expresses your wishes about the distribution of your assets after death and names the person who will manage your estate administration. It can also designate guardians for minor children and spell out specific bequests. However, certain assets such as jointly owned property, accounts with named beneficiaries, and some retirement accounts may pass outside the will. Understanding which assets are governed by the will and which transfer by other means is essential to creating a complete plan that reflects your goals and minimizes confusion for survivors.
Wills must comply with Tennessee formalities to be valid, including being properly signed and witnessed. Changes to a will can be made through codicils or by creating a new will, and it is important to update the document after major life events to avoid unintended outcomes. While some may attempt to create a will using online forms, personalized attention helps ensure that your specific circumstances, family relationships, and assets are addressed correctly and that the will coordinates with beneficiary designations and any existing trust arrangements.
What a Will Is Under Tennessee Law
Under Tennessee law, a will is a written document that communicates a person’s wishes regarding property distribution and estate administration after death. To be valid, a will generally must be signed by the testator and witnessed according to statutory requirements. A will can name an executor to handle estate affairs, provide directions for debts and taxes, and include specific gifts for family and friends. It is important to understand that a will only governs assets that do not have their own transfer mechanisms and that some arrangements like joint tenancy may override provisions of a will.
Key Components and the Will Preparation Process
A typical will includes identification of the person making the will, designation of a personal representative, instructions for distribution of property, and any special provisions for guardianship or care of dependents. The preparation process usually begins with gathering asset information, discussing family dynamics and goals, and determining who will serve in fiduciary roles. Drafting follows with careful attention to language that avoids ambiguity. The final steps include signing and witnessing in line with Tennessee requirements and providing guidance on safe storage, notification of key individuals, and how to handle updates or revocations.
Key Terms and Definitions for Wills
Understanding common legal terms used in wills helps you make informed decisions. This glossary section defines frequently used words such as beneficiary, personal representative, intestacy, probate, and codicil. Clear definitions can reduce confusion when reviewing draft documents and talking with family members about your plan. Familiarity with these terms also makes it easier to update your will over time and ensures that instructions you leave behind are interpreted as intended by courts and appointed fiduciaries in Tennessee.
Beneficiary
A beneficiary is any person, organization, or entity designated to receive property or assets under a will or other estate planning document. Beneficiaries may receive specific gifts, percentages of an estate, or designated accounts. It is important to name beneficiaries clearly and provide identifying information to reduce the chance of disputes. Beneficiary designations on insurance or retirement accounts function independently of a will, so coordinating these designations with your will helps ensure that your overall plan matches your intended distributions and reduces surprises for those who survive you.
Personal Representative
The personal representative, sometimes called an executor or administrator, is the person appointed to manage the estate administration process after a death. Responsibilities include locating assets, paying debts and taxes, distributing property according to the will, and handling filings with the probate court. Choosing someone who is reliable and organized helps the administration proceed more smoothly. It is also wise to name an alternate representative in case the primary appointee is unable or unwilling to serve when called upon to carry out the duties described in the will.
Intestacy
Intestacy occurs when someone dies without a valid will, in which case Tennessee’s intestacy statutes determine how property is distributed. Distribution under intestacy may not match the decedent’s preferences, particularly for blended families or nontraditional relationships. Without a will, the court may appoint an administrator and assets may pass according to a fixed formula that prioritizes spouses and biological or adopted children. Preparing a will avoids the default intestacy rules and gives you control over who receives property and who will manage the estate.
Probate
Probate is the legal process through which a court validates a will, oversees the administration of an estate, and supervises distribution of assets to beneficiaries. The probate process includes filing documents with the appropriate Tennessee court, inventorying estate assets, notifying creditors, paying debts, and resolving disputes that may arise. While some estates qualify for simplified procedures, others require a full probate administration. Effective estate planning can help minimize delays and reduce the administrative burden on family members during probate.
Comparing Wills to Other Estate Planning Options
When deciding how to structure an estate plan, wills are one of several tools to consider alongside trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership. A will provides clear instructions for property that does not transfer automatically, while trusts can help avoid probate and provide ongoing management for beneficiaries. Each option has different implications for privacy, administration time, and control after death. Choosing the right combination depends on family circumstances, asset types, and goals for distribution and care of dependents. A tailored approach often combines a will with other instruments for comprehensive coverage.
When a Simple Will Might Be Appropriate:
Small Estates and Straightforward Family Situations
A simple will can be appropriate for individuals with modest assets, uncomplicated family structures, and clear wishes about who should inherit. When most property passes through beneficiary designations or joint ownership, a short will may provide needed directions for items not otherwise covered. A simple will can name a personal representative and a guardian for minor children if needed. Even with a straightforward situation, periodic review of the will is important to confirm that it still reflects current relationships and asset holdings, and to ensure legal formalities are preserved for enforceability.
Clear and Undisputed Beneficiary Designations
When retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and payable-on-death accounts already name beneficiaries that align with your overall goals, a simple will can serve as a backup for assets not covered by those designations. This approach reduces complexity and can limit administrative tasks for family members. However, it is important to periodically coordinate beneficiary designations with the will to avoid conflicting instructions. Clear documentation and accessible copies help ensure that transfers proceed according to your wishes without unnecessary delay or confusion for heirs.
When a Broader Estate Plan Is Advisable:
Complex Assets or Family Situations
A comprehensive plan is often advisable when a family has significant assets, a blended family, minor children, or beneficiaries with special needs. In such cases, trusts and other planning tools can provide ongoing management, protect assets, and address tax or succession concerns. Comprehensive planning helps coordinate wills with trusts, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney to create an integrated strategy that reflects long-term goals and reduces the risk of unintended outcomes. Thoughtful planning can also address potential disputes and provide structured guidance for fiduciaries who will manage the estate.
Desire to Avoid Probate or Preserve Privacy
Individuals who prefer to avoid a public probate process or desire more privacy often use trusts and other mechanisms alongside a will. Trusts can transfer assets without court supervision and allow for continuity in management if a grantor becomes incapacitated. For those with concerns about probate timeframes, creditor claims, or public access to estate records, a broader plan provides options to reduce delays and maintain confidentiality. Planning in advance also ensures that documents work together seamlessly and that successors have clear instructions for asset management.
Benefits of a Coordinated Estate Plan
A coordinated estate plan aligns wills with trusts, beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, and health care directives to create a cohesive strategy for asset transfer and decision-making. This integrated approach reduces the chance of conflicting instructions and can streamline administration for appointed representatives. It also offers flexibility to address changing circumstances, allows for more precise control over distributions, and can reduce administrative burdens for surviving family members. When documents are drafted to work together, the overall process tends to proceed more smoothly and predictably.
Comprehensive planning also provides an opportunity to address nonfinancial concerns such as guardianship for minors, care arrangements for family members, and philanthropic wishes. By considering the full picture—assets, beneficiaries, and family dynamics—clients can create a plan that balances immediate needs with long-term objectives. Clear written instructions reduce misunderstanding and litigation risk, and provide decision-makers with the authority and guidance needed to carry out your intentions while protecting family relationships and preserving assets for future generations.
Greater Control Over Asset Distribution
With a comprehensive plan, you can tailor how and when beneficiaries receive property, which can be helpful for younger recipients or those who need financial oversight. Trusts and other mechanisms enable staggered distributions, conditions to protect assets, and provisions that direct funds for education or health care. Clear direction also helps personal representatives and trustees fulfill your intentions without having to make discretionary choices. This kind of control is particularly valuable when you want to balance immediate financial needs with long-term preservation of family wealth or support for specific causes.
Reduced Administrative Burden and Potential Delays
Comprehensive planning can reduce the time and complexity of estate administration by limiting assets that must pass through probate and by providing clear authority for fiduciaries. When documents are properly coordinated, representatives can act quickly to secure assets, pay legitimate debts, and distribute property according to your wishes. This lessens stress on family members who are already coping with a loss and can reduce legal fees and court involvement. Thoughtful planning also addresses creditor claims and timing issues to minimize delays and uncertainty for beneficiaries.
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Practical Tips for Preparing Your Will
Gather Financial and Personal Information First
Begin the will preparation process by gathering a comprehensive list of assets, account information, insurance policies, deeds, and beneficiary designations. Including personal details about family members and contact information for potential fiduciaries will streamline drafting and reduce the chance of errors. Take time to think through who you trust to carry out your wishes and discuss their willingness to serve in roles such as personal representative or guardian. Organized documentation helps ensure that your will addresses all relevant assets and reduces the need for later amendments or corrections.
Keep Beneficiary Designations Updated and Coordinated
Store Documents Safely and Communicate Location
Once your will is signed, keep the original document in a secure but accessible location, and let the personal representative and a trusted family member know where it is stored. Consider keeping a copy with your attorney and providing copies to named fiduciaries so they can act quickly when needed. Avoid hiding the document without telling anyone, as difficulty locating a will can delay administration and complicate matters for your survivors. Clear communication about document locations and contact information for advisors reduces stress and speeds the process for those carrying out your wishes.
Why You Should Consider Creating a Will
Creating a will gives you control over how your assets are distributed and who manages your estate after death. Without a will, Tennessee courts apply default rules that may not match your preferences, which can result in unintended distributions and additional legal proceedings. A will allows you to name a personal representative, specify guardianship for minor children, and leave directions for personal and charitable gifts. Taking the time to document your intentions through a will helps reduce confusion and provides clear guidance to those responsible for settling your affairs.
Beyond asset distribution, a will offers a way to address family circumstances that require special handling, such as blended families, care for dependents with special needs, or unique personal bequests. Preparing a will can also enable you to make funeral or memorial preferences known and to leave instructions for sentimental items that may have significant emotional value. Proactive planning reassures loved ones and prevents unnecessary delays or disputes, ensuring that your final wishes are followed with greater confidence and less stress for those you leave behind.
Common Situations Where a Will Is Recommended
A will is recommended when you want to control the distribution of property, provide for minor children, or name a trusted person to manage estate affairs. It is also appropriate after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, childbirth, or the acquisition of significant assets. Individuals with clear beneficiary designations should still consider a will as a backup for assets not covered elsewhere. Preparing a will helps address specific family circumstances, avoid default state distribution rules, and provide peace of mind through written instructions that guide loved ones after your passing.
New Family Additions or Changes
When a family grows through birth, adoption, or marriage, updating or creating a will becomes important to reflect new relationships and responsibilities. Naming guardians for minor children and indicating how assets should be used to support them are matters best handled proactively. Life changes can alter priorities, and a will ensures those changes are considered in your estate planning. Regular updates avoid unintentional outcomes and help make sure that new family members are included in your plans in the manner you intend.
Significant Asset Acquisition
Acquiring substantial assets such as real estate, business interests, or sizable investment accounts makes it important to document distribution preferences to avoid uncertainty. A will can be structured to address unique assets and to direct how property should be managed or sold after death. Including clear directions for significant holdings can reduce complications during administration and protect value for beneficiaries. When asset portfolios become more complex, coordination with beneficiary designations and other planning documents helps ensure a cohesive plan.
Desire for Specific Bequests or Charitable Gifts
If you wish to leave particular items to family members, friends, or organizations, a will allows you to identify those gifts and provide instructions for their distribution. Whether the gifts are sentimental items, family heirlooms, or charitable contributions, putting them in writing reduces ambiguity and helps ensure your intentions are honored. Specific bequests should be described clearly to minimize the likelihood of disputes and to assist the personal representative in locating and transferring those items as you intended.
Local Legal Assistance for Wills in Blaine
Jay Johnson Law Firm is available to help Blaine residents prepare wills that reflect their wishes and comply with Tennessee law. We provide clear guidance on selecting fiduciaries, coordinating beneficiary designations, and ensuring proper execution and storage of documents. Our goal is to make the process manageable and comprehensible, offering practical steps for signing and maintaining your will. If questions arise after a document is prepared, we offer follow-up assistance to review changes in life circumstances and recommend updates as needed to keep your plan current and effective.
Why Choose Jay Johnson Law Firm for Your Will
Clients choose Jay Johnson Law Firm for practical, client-focused legal services related to wills and estate planning. We focus on clear communication, careful drafting, and providing guidance that reflects each client’s individual goals and family situation. Our approach emphasizes straightforward explanation of available options, attention to detail in document preparation, and assistance with proper execution so that wills are legally valid under Tennessee law. We also guide clients on how wills interact with beneficiary designations and other planning instruments.
When meeting with clients, we prioritize understanding personal priorities and helping craft documents that reduce the likelihood of disputes. We provide checklists, review asset lists, and suggest practical steps for appointing fiduciaries who can carry out their responsibilities. Our work aims to create clear, enforceable instructions that facilitate estate administration and limit potential confusion for families. We also strive to answer follow-up questions and offer periodic reviews so that plans remain aligned with changing circumstances.
For residents of Blaine and surrounding areas, our firm offers accessible counsel and assistance with the paperwork and procedural steps needed to finalize a will. We explain the signing and witnessing requirements, recommend best practices for document storage, and clarify when additional measures like trusts may be beneficial. Our goal is to make the process efficient and respectful, providing documents that reflect your intentions and give peace of mind to you and your family.
Start Your Will Today — Call Jay Johnson Law Firm
How We Handle the Will Preparation Process
Our process for preparing a will begins with an initial discussion to identify assets, family dynamics, and your priorities for distributions and guardianship. We then prepare a draft will that reflects those goals and review it with you to ensure the language is clear and complete. After finalizing the document, we advise on the proper signing and witnessing steps required by Tennessee law and provide instructions for secure storage. We remain available for questions and updates as circumstances change, helping ensure your will continues to reflect your wishes over time.
Step One: Initial Consultation and Information Gathering
The first step involves a conversation to gather information about assets, family members, and your objectives for the will. During this meeting we discuss who you want to name as a personal representative and any guardians or beneficiaries you wish to include. We also review existing account beneficiary designations and property ownership structures to identify assets that might not be governed by the will. The goal of this initial stage is to assemble all relevant facts so we can draft a will that accurately reflects your intentions and coordinates with other planning elements.
Identify Assets and Beneficiaries
A thorough inventory of assets helps ensure the will addresses everything you intend to distribute. This includes real property, bank and investment accounts, life insurance policies, retirement accounts, business interests, and personal property. Identifying beneficiaries and providing clear contact information reduces the chance of confusion and assists in efficient administration. When certain assets pass outside the will, we note those arrangements and integrate them into the overall plan so your wishes are consistent across different transfer mechanisms.
Discuss Fiduciary Roles and Preferences
Choosing the right person to serve as personal representative and naming alternates is an important part of the planning conversation. We discuss the responsibilities involved and whether you prefer a family member, friend, or professional to serve. We also cover options for guardianship of minors and how to handle potential conflicts among beneficiaries. Documenting your preferences clearly in the will reduces uncertainty for those who will act on your behalf and helps ensure your wishes are carried out smoothly.
Step Two: Drafting the Will
Once we have gathered the necessary information, we draft a will tailored to your circumstances. The draft will include clear language for distributions, fiduciary appointments, and any special provisions you wish to include. We focus on removing ambiguity, ensuring compliance with Tennessee formalities, and coordinating the will with existing beneficiary designations and other planning documents. After you review the draft, we make any necessary revisions so that the final will accurately reflects your intentions and provides straightforward guidance for administration.
Review and Revise the Draft
You will have the opportunity to review the drafted will and ask questions about any provisions. We carefully explain the implications of each clause, suggest clarifying language where needed, and make revisions to match your intentions. This review stage is important to ensure that your wishes are reflected correctly and to reduce the chance of future disputes. Clear communication and a careful review process help create a will that is both understandable and legally sound under Tennessee requirements.
Finalize Language and Prepare for Execution
After revisions are complete, we prepare the final version of the will and explain the signing and witnessing procedures required by Tennessee law. We provide instructions on where to sign the document, how many witnesses are needed, and best practices for avoiding technical defects that might invalidate the will. We also discuss storage options and recommend informing key individuals about the location of the original will so it can be located and submitted to the appropriate court when needed.
Step Three: Execution and Ongoing Maintenance
Execution of the will requires following Tennessee formalities for signatures and witnesses to ensure validity. Once executed, the will should be stored securely and periodically reviewed, especially after major life events. We recommend reviewing the will after changes such as marriage, divorce, births, or significant shifts in assets. Ongoing maintenance can include updates to beneficiary designations, creation of additional documents like trusts or powers of attorney, and confirming that named fiduciaries remain willing and able to serve when the time comes.
Proper Signing and Witnessing
To be legally effective, a will must be signed and witnessed according to Tennessee law, which includes specific requirements about the presence and number of witnesses. Following these steps carefully avoids technical defects that could lead to challenges later. We provide clear instructions and can be present to guide the signing process to ensure all formalities are satisfied. Proper execution reduces the risk of contested wills and gives greater certainty that your instructions will be followed by the court and personal representative.
Periodic Review and Amendments
Life events frequently necessitate updates to estate planning documents, and a regular review schedule helps keep your will aligned with current goals and relationships. Amendments can be made by preparing a new will or adding a codicil, and we advise clients on the best approach. Regular reviews ensure that changes in assets, family structure, or priorities are reflected accurately. Keeping documents up to date minimizes unintended consequences and helps ensure that the estate administration proceeds according to your present intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wills in Tennessee
What happens if I die without a will in Tennessee?
If you die without a valid will in Tennessee, state intestacy laws determine who receives your property and who will manage the estate. These rules prioritize spouses and children in a set order that may not reflect your personal intentions, and they can result in outcomes that surprise families who expected different distributions. Intestacy also means the court will appoint an administrator to handle the estate, which can add procedural steps and reduce control over who manages the estate. Planning ahead by preparing a will allows you to specify beneficiaries and appoint a trusted person to administer your affairs. A will also gives you the opportunity to name guardians for minor children and to make specific bequests to friends, relatives, or charities. Taking the step to create a will prevents default rules from deciding matters for you and helps provide clarity to those left behind.
How do I choose the right person to manage my estate?
Selecting the person to manage your estate is an important decision that balances availability, organizational ability, and trustworthiness. Many people name a close family member or friend who understands their wishes and can handle communications with beneficiaries and the court. If no suitable individual is available, another option is to name a professional fiduciary or a bank trust department as the personal representative to ensure neutral administration. It is also prudent to name an alternate representative in case the first choice cannot serve when the time comes. Discuss the responsibilities with anyone you plan to appoint so they understand the role and are willing to serve. Clear communication and selecting someone with practical skills for record keeping and decision making will help the administration process proceed more smoothly for beneficiaries.
Can I make changes to my will after it is signed?
Yes, you can make changes to your will after it is signed by creating a new will or adding a codicil that amends specific provisions. A new will that expressly revokes prior wills is often the simplest way to make comprehensive changes and avoid confusion. It is important to follow Tennessee formalities for execution when updating a will so that the new document is valid and enforceable. Minor changes can be handled with a codicil, but these require the same signing and witnessing requirements as the original will. Regular reviews after major life events like marriage, divorce, births, or significant changes in assets will help ensure your will remains accurate. When in doubt, consult an attorney to make sure amendments are properly executed and documented.
Will my will avoid probate for all my assets?
A will does not avoid probate for assets that have their own transfer mechanisms, such as jointly held property, accounts with named beneficiaries, or certain retirement accounts. These assets typically pass directly to the survivor or the named beneficiary and are not controlled by the will. A will governs only property that is part of the decedent’s probate estate and not otherwise transferred by nonprobate means. To reduce probate involvement for other assets, many individuals combine a will with trusts, beneficiary designations, and account ownership strategies. Coordination between these instruments helps ensure assets transfer according to your overall intentions and can minimize the volume of property that must pass through probate in Tennessee.
How often should I review or update my will?
It is a good idea to review your will periodically and after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or significant changes to your assets. These events can alter your intended distributions or the suitability of named fiduciaries, making revisions advisable. A routine review every few years helps ensure the document remains aligned with your current circumstances and legal developments. If you find that your financial picture, family relationships, or priorities have changed, updating the will prevents unintended consequences and keeps your instructions clear. Regular reviews also provide an opportunity to coordinate beneficiary designations and other planning documents for a consistent estate plan.
Can I disinherit a family member in my will?
In Tennessee you may choose to leave no property to certain relatives by providing clear language in your will, but be aware that family circumstances and state law can affect outcomes in certain situations. Intentionally excluding close family members sometimes leads to disputes, so careful drafting and communication can help reduce potential challenges. It is important to clearly state your intentions to avoid ambiguity and to consider including explanations where appropriate to express reasons for decisions. Before finalizing a will that disinherits an obvious heir, consider the practical aspects of administration and the potential for contest. Working through alternatives or providing alternative arrangements can minimize conflict. Consulting about the best methods to document your decisions helps ensure they are carried out as you intend.
What information should I bring to my will appointment?
When attending a will planning appointment, bring a list of assets including account numbers, deeds, and beneficiary designations, as well as details about family members and their contact information. Also gather information about any business interests, life insurance policies, and retirement accounts. Having organized documentation speeds the drafting process and helps ensure all relevant items are addressed in the will. Prepare a list of people you might want to appoint as personal representative, guardians, or beneficiaries, and think about alternates in case your first choices cannot serve. Consider any special instructions you wish to leave for the distribution of personal items or for charitable gifts, and be ready to discuss your priorities so the will can be drafted to reflect them accurately.
How are guardians for minor children appointed in a will?
Guardians for minor children are typically appointed in a will, and this appointment is subject to court approval. Naming a guardian expresses your preference for who should care for your children if you and the other parent are unable to do so. It is wise to discuss your choice with the proposed guardian ahead of time to ensure they are willing to accept the responsibility and able to do so if needed. It is also important to name an alternate guardian in case the first choice cannot serve. Providing clear instructions about the care and financial support of minors through the will and other planning documents helps the appointed guardians manage the children’s affairs and reduces uncertainty during a difficult time.
What are the costs associated with creating a will?
Costs for creating a will vary based on complexity, the need for customization, and whether additional planning documents are included. Simple wills for straightforward situations are generally less expensive, while plans involving trusts, complex assets, or business interests may require additional time and fees. It is helpful to discuss pricing upfront and understand what services are included, such as drafting, revisions, and execution guidance. Investing in a properly drafted will can reduce future legal complications and administrative costs for your family. Understanding the likely costs for updates and additional planning measures helps you budget for ongoing maintenance of your estate plan and ensures important matters are handled correctly and affordably.
How do I store my will and let others know where it is?
Store the original will in a secure but accessible location, such as a safe deposit box or with a trusted attorney, and make sure key people know how to access it when needed. Avoid hiding the document without informing the personal representative or a trusted family member, as difficulty locating the will can delay estate administration. Keeping a copy with clear instructions about the original’s location is also helpful. Provide contact information for the attorney who prepared the will and consider leaving a list of important accounts and documents alongside the will. Clear communication about storage and access reduces stress for survivors and helps the administration process begin promptly when required.