The Easiest Gift That Makes A Difference

Bequests: Wills, Trusts and Leaving A Legacy

Individuals are often able to make significant gifts to family, close friends, and special charities through their Last Will and Testament, especially when there is not a surviving spouse. Gifts to family may be outright bequests, or they may be in the form of trusts. Gifts to charity may also be outright bequests, or they may be deferred gifts such as charitable remainder trusts or charitable gift annuities. Charitable gifts made at death are generally eligible for estate tax deductions. The charitable remainder trust provides an exciting opportunity to create a legacy for both family and charity — a concept best described as Giving It Twice.

What are the benefits of making a bequest?

1. You leave a lasting legacy to be remembered
2. You lessen the burden of taxes on your family
3. You may receive estate tax savings

What are my options?

A bequest can be made in several ways:

• You can gift a specific dollar amount or asset
• You can gift a percentage of your estate
• You can gift from the balance or residue of your estate
• You can make a beneficiary designation of certain assets

How do I make a bequest?

How can I learn more?

We have a variety of resources that will help you learn more about bequests. You can watch a video, download a brochure or request a wills guide. You will see how easy it is to include a bequest in your will or trust. If you have additional questions, please contact us and we will be happy to help.

Get Started Today

If you would like to create a plan for your future or need to make updates to an existing plan, the Wills Planner can help you get started. Watch videos to learn how to use the Wills Planner to create the peace of mind that comes with having a plan. When you are ready to get started, you can create an account or login to plan your will and create your personal settings.