Originally published on 10/11’s Pure Nebraska Program
Less than half of American adults have a will, according to Caring’s 2025 Wills and Estate Planning study. 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. Here are three more compelling reasons to either write or revisit that will during the month of August.
Your family and/or heirs will thank you.
Only 20% of Americans have discussed estate planning with a loved one, according to the same Caring.com survey. That means, in the event of an untimely passing, those folks are left to guess their wishes, or worse, fight over them. Having a will in place is the best way to ensure one’s wishes are met and that loved ones are taken care of.
Your community will thank you.
Over the next 10 years in Nebraska, more than $100 billion will transfer from one generation to the next. There is always a transfer from generation to generation, as parents pass away and leave their estate to their children. But if the heirs no longer live where they grew up, that wealth may leave as well. Importantly, many Nebraska counties are approaching or are already in the midst of their peak transfer years. In other words, there is real urgency to act now. The opportunity will never be greater.
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 the place you love. Nebraska Community Foundation suggests leaving 5% of one’s assets to local charitable causes like your local affiliated fund 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 our hometowns for the next generation who call it home.
It’s easier than you think.
Writing a will may seem intimidating, but most people report the process is easier than they anticipated. Meeting with a professional advisor is always recommended, however there are also free online tools to help you get started. For instance, www.fivetothrivene.org has a free, easy-to-use will planning guide to take you through the process. Visit the website, scroll down to the “Transfer of Wealth Toolkit,” and click on “WORKBOOK: Planning Your Legacy” to access the free guide.
