August Is National “Make a Will” Month: Are You Prepared?

August is National Make-a-Will Month — an annual observance emphasizing the importance of creating or updating a will. Do you have peace of mind about your plans being in order? Would your property go to the people and charities you want to support and in the ways you want to provide this support?

Whether you are 18 or 80, having a will is extremely important. It’s a sure way you can ensure the people and causes you love the most are taken care of, and having a proper will can make the difference between a smooth transfer of assets and a possible probate nightmare.

According to a recent study, 67% of people in the U.S. don’t have an estate plan. Despite the importance of having a will, many people never get around to drafting one — often citing they didn’t have time, never got around to it, or disliked the idea of considering their death. Another common misconception is you do not need a will unless you are wealthy.

Your will is an extremely personal, important, and powerful financial document in your life. Without a legitimate will, state laws — not you — will decide how your affairs and assets are handled.

Among the many benefits involved, creating your will enable you to:

• have peace of mind
• ensure security and confidence for your loved ones
• build your legacy and impact for future generations

Make-a-Will Month is the ideal reminder for being prepared — and United Way of Broward County can make it easy and streamlined. And getting your affairs in order doesn’t need to be expensive or time-consuming.

We’re excited to announce our partnership with FreeWill, a secure and easy-to-use online tool that guides you through making your will — and it’s completely cost-free! 20% of the will-makers on FreeWill leave a gift for a charity, and last year, a combined $604 million was designated to charity.

Our team at United Way of Broward County can serve as a resource and sounding board as you build your charitable plans, pursue your philanthropic objectives through planned giving, and ensure the causes you care about continue.

There are many ways to participate in planned giving. United Way of Broward County accepts cash donations, real estate, stocks, and more. When designating our United Way as a beneficiary, you can set a certain percentage of your estate to planned giving — and even a small designation can create a range of powerful effects.

When you work with our team at United Way of Broward County, you are collaborating with people who know the community and its needs as well as people who listen attentively to the ways you want to make an impact.

A gift through our program for planned giving also connects your legacy to a powerful network of other generous people who share your vision for a stronger, more vibrant community. And by investing in Broward County through our planned giving, you are advancing our mission to fight for the Health, Education, and Financial Prosperity of EVERY person who lives in our community — now and for generations to come.

Writing a will is NOT a long, complicated, and expensive process. Our partnership with FreeWill will take you through the process step by step — and it typically takes 20 minutes. If you have a simple estate, you can print your legal will to be signed and witnessed. If you have a complex estate, the same tools will help you document your wishes and help find a qualified attorney (if needed) to finalize your plans.

Making a will is more than just a legal obligation. It is about peace of mind and empowerment — extending their love, care and generosity to family, friends, and the causes you care about.

Make-a-Will Month also serves as a reminder of the enduring impact you can make through planned giving and an additional way you can make a transformative effect on Broward County.

Making your will is the best way to protect your loved ones and contribute to the causes that matter the most to you. Get started today.

Already made your will? Fantastic! Remember: It’s always important to keep it updated every three to five years — and when reviewing it, consider naming United Way of Broward County as a beneficiary.

When you have questions or want to discuss how you can ensure your legacy to creating a better Broward through planned giving, please contact Patrick Harris, our United Way’s director of Major Gifts, at [email protected] or call at 954-308-9264.

* United Way of Broward County does not offer legal or tax advice. Please consult with your attorney, accountant, and/or tax advisor for advice concerning your particular circumstances.