Originally published on 10/11’s Pure Nebraska program.
More than 50% of Americans don’t have estate planning documents in place, according to a 2025 study by Caring.com. What many don’t realize is they actually do have a will. Most states, including Nebraska, have statutes directing how one’s estate will be distributed if they die without a will. The reality is these laws most likely do not reflect what a person (or their family) would want. By creating a will, one can take control of their legacy.
National Make-A-Will Month
August is Make-a-Will Month and the perfect reminder to either finally get a plan in place, or revisit estate plans to ensure they still represent one’s wishes.
With a will, a person decides how to use their estate to ensure their family’s security and hometown’s future. Many Nebraskans are beginning to treat their communities as another member of their family, recognizing the essential role the places they call home have in their lives. More than ever, Nebraskans are realizing they must care for their communities the way they’ve cared for them.
In Nebraska, in the next decade, more than $100 billion will transfer from one generation to the next. Charitable gift planning is one of the simplest, most impactful ways to ensure a portion of the multi-billion-dollar transfer of wealth remains in Nebraska’s hometowns. Nebraska Community Foundation suggests leaving 5% of one’s assets to local charitable causes. If everyone left just 5%, it would equate to $5 billion statewide in the next decade. These charitable resources could be used to further community and economic development, better local quality-of-life and improve the state for the next generation who call it home.
Getting Started
Writing a will may seem intimidating, but most people report the process is easier than they anticipated. Meeting with an attorney or professional advisor is always recommended, however, there are also free online tools to help a person get started. For instance, www.fivetothrivene.org has a free, easy-to-use will planning guide that walks users through the process. Nebraska Community Foundation staff are always happy to discuss tax-wise charitable gift planning strategies and the ways fellow Nebraskans are leaving a legacy.
Whether they need to start the conversation, make it official or revisit an existing will, August is the perfect time for community-minded Nebraskans to craft a legacy that benefits them, their family and the place they love.
For more information, visit www.fivetothrivene.org.
