Your Will, or the State's Will
If you don't have a will, your state has one for you. If you have not prepared your will, your state of residency at death will distribute your estate according to its laws. Your estate will be divided according to a formula, without taking into account any special needs of your family or your personal wishes. Without a will, you lose the power to control the disposition of your property. Furthermore, the state has no charitable intent.

Only Through a Will Can You…

• Distribute your property as you choose;
• Appoint your own executor;
• Minimize certain estate costs
• Suggest a guardian for surviving minor children
• Provide for trusts;
• Exercise testamentary powers of appointment
• Provide for your church or favorite ministries and charities

Everyone Needs a Will
Everyone who owns property, has investments or savings, has dependents, and wants to remember the work of the church or a favorite charity needs a will.

When Should I Make a Will?
It's never too early to consider how you would like your property dispersed. When you have made a plan, visit your attorney and have your will prepared. Important decisions will be made which require professional advice. Without a legal will, your desire to benefit your family, church or favorite charities may not be achieved.

Forms of Bequests
There are various forms of charitable bequests. Examples include:

• A specific dollar amount;
• A percent of the estate's residual value
• A specific asset (real estate, stock, etc.)

When leaving a bequest to a charitable organization, include it's legal name and address.
When you have properly provided for your family in planning your will, we hope that you will find a place for Lutheran Community Services Northwest. By making a bequest to LCS, you will be helping our agency fulfill its mission of partnering with individuals, families and communities for health, justice and hope.

For more information or assistance regarding wills or charitable bequests, contact contact Barry Hazard at 503/731-9518.

This information is for illustrative and educational purposes only and should not be considered tax or legal advice. Please consult with your tax or legal advisor about your estate plan.

* Information courtesy of the ELCA Foundation

Leave a Legacy | Ten Things You Can Do | Your Will | Charitable Trusts | Charitable Gift Annuities