Estate planning can be a challenging process. Below are some of the most frequently-asked questions:

Where do I start?

Your attorney, financial planner, accountant or insurance agent can help you with your estate planning. These professionals can familiarize you with tax benefits and advantages of various planned giving strategies. You may contact the development director of a charitable organization. Or Contact Us at Leave a Legacy.

How do I start?

Consider your family and other persons you'd like to benefit. Ask yourself which organizations and causes you would like to support. Be sure to find out as much as possible about these organizations before you make a final decision. You may call them directly to discuss specific opportunities for giving. Click here for a list of Web sites listing nonprofit organizations and agencies throughout the country.

What can I give?

Cash ... stocks, bonds and mutual funds ... real estate (land or buildings) ... personal property (such as automobiles, art work, jewelry, valuable collectibles, antiques and more) ... bequests through your will or a living trust ... life insurance ... and retirement plans ... all can be used as vehicles for planned giving.

How do I leave a gift in memory of a loved one?

You may give any type of gift to a particular organization or cause in another's memory. Just be sure it is specified in your will or estate plan that the gift is in memory of or a particular individual for a certain use.

Do I notify the charity that it is a beneficiary?

You have no legal obligation to do so. This is your decision. Many organizations, however, like to recognize such gifts - and donors - in advance.

 

Now is the best time to start your estate plan. If you need assistance, please...Contact Us, or email us.