|
Gifts By Will:
You can make a gift through any of the following forms: – A bequest of cash, securities, stock, real estate or other property. – A testamentary charitable reminder trust, created by placing all or a portion of the state in trust to benefit family members during their lifetime, with the principle being transferred to the Red Cross at the termination of the trust.
Bequests:
Bequest Language: To make a gift to a local chapter, donor should use the following language:
I give devise and bequeath to the American Red Cross for the benefit of the Calhoun County Chapter in Battle Creek MI the sum of _____________(or otherwise describe the gift or specify a percentage of the estate.)
Making Your Will: Easy as ABC!
A lot of people find it easy to delay making a will. By some estimates, as many as 85% of us do not have one. We procrastinate because we think estate planning is hard. But really, it is not all that difficult. In fact, creating a will can be as simple as ABC! Here′s how:
Assets. ––
Begin by making an inventory of all your assets: Insurance, retirement, bank, and brokerage accounts, real estate, vehicles, artwork, jewelry –– everything you own. Once you have the list, estimate the value of your assets and then deduct any debts or mortgages you may have. This will give you a rough idea of the total value of your estate. Having this information well organized can save both time and money when the will is actually written.
Beneficiaries. ––
Whom do you want to receive your assets, and in what amounts? First, consider family needs and obligations. Then think about the charitable organizations that are important to you, and how a bequest could benefit them while creating a lasting legacy for you.
Confidants. ––
Choose trustworthy individuals to provide legal and other professional assistance, as well as a personal representative to help settle your estate. You may also need to select one or more trustees and guardians for any minor children.
Once you have listed and valued your assets, selected the beneficiaries for your estate (don′t forget charitable organizations!) and have chosen the key persons to assist you now and after your death, it is time to act! Don′t delay. Contact an estate–planning attorney right away and move forward!
If you need help finding a good attorney, ask your friends for suggestions or contact the trust department of your bank for a referral. Ask around until you find someone with whom you feel comfortable. If you wish, we can assist you with this process.
While creating a will is not nearly as difficult as you might have thought, it does take some time. But the end result – a deep sense of satisfaction and peace of mind – is well worth it!
To help make the process of planning for you and your family′s future even easier, we have available the Making Simple Gifts Through Your Will. This comprehensive kit includes a checklist and suggestions to help you organize the important information outlined above. It also explains why it is so important to have a valid will. To obtain a copy, contact Angie Gresley at 269-962-7528 or via e-mail at angie_gresley@yahoo.com. The kit is free, but the information it contains is priceless!
|
