Secure Your Legacy: 3 Reasons to Create Your Estate Plan
It’s National Estate Planning Awareness Week, and you might find this reminder just what you need to finally sit down and create (or update) your last will and testament. An estate plan is a vital way to protect your loved ones and support the causes you care about including Silver Cross.
Do you still need to make your will? Here are three compelling reasons to take action:
1. A Crucial Legal Document for Everyone
Having a will is essential for all adults over the age of 18. It allows you to distribute your property and safeguard your loved ones after you pass away. Currently, one-third of American adults have a will, and this number is growing. If you haven’t yet created or updated your will, now is the perfect time to start. Download our Free Estate Planning Guide.
2. Peace of Mind for You and Your Family
Wills benefit everyone, regardless of their financial status. They simplify life and death for your family by clearly outlining how your belongings should be distributed. Whether it’s your home, vehicles, or sentimental items, a will ensures your assets go to the people and charities you want them to. If you don’t have a will, your loved ones will be tasked with finding a home for this property, maybe even donating it to the Encore (Resale) Shop, when you pass on. It also helps avoid family conflicts and confusion, providing reassurance during a difficult time.
Additionally, you can name a legal guardian for your minor or disabled children and specify who should care for your pets. These practical benefits are invaluable, but most importantly, a will brings peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
3. Creating a Lasting Legacy
Although none of us live forever, we can leave a positive impact on the world through our wills. By including a charity like the Silver Cross Foundation in your estate plan, you can make a lasting difference. You can donate cash, stock, real estate, and more. A planned gift to Silver Cross ensures your support for the health of your community continues even after you’re gone.
Keeping Your Will Updated
If you already have a will, it’s important to keep it updated. Estate attorneys recommend reviewing your will every three to five years or after significant life events like marriage, relocation, or having a grandchild.
Take 15 minutes to review your will and ensure it reflects your current wishes and circumstances. Also, remember to name beneficiaries for your non-probate assets, such as life insurance policies or retirement accounts. You can also name the Silver Cross Foundation as a beneficiary to leave a lasting impact. When you do, please let us know so we can welcome you to the Silver Cross Legacy Society.
For more information on how to include Silver Cross in your estate plans, contact Tracy Simons, Executive Director of the Silver Cross Foundation, at (815) 300-7113 or via email.
