leavealegacy

Leave a Legacy by making a planned gift to The First Tee of Pittsburgh

An up-to-date will is likely one of your most effective tools in protecting the security of your loved ones and providing for the people and causes you cherish most. The process of creating a will doesn’t need to be time-consuming or expensive. And the peace of mind you’ll feel once you’ve clearly and legally articulated your final wishes is priceless.

By making bequests and other “planned gifts,” you can continue to help organizations that are making an important difference in your community.

What better way to thank the people or organizations that have had an impact on your life, than to make a contribution from your estate through a bequest?

A qualified attorney or financial professional can assist you and answer many questions you have, such as –

I have children and relatives. Shouldn’t I leave my entire estate to them?

This is perhaps the number one cause for reluctance when making a bequest. The truth is that, depending on the current tax laws, leaving a gift to charity in your will may reduce the estate tax burden on your heirs significantly. When you consult with a financial advisor or attorney you will learn how giving may actually benefit your family after you’re gone.

A Plan for Taking Control of the Future

1. Make an inventory of your assets. Before you can establish your goals for providing for others after your lifetime, you need to examine your resources. Begin by making an inventory of your assets, using the current market value for everything you own and the face value (not cash value) for any life insurance.

2. Decide where you want your property to go. Once you’ve made an inventory of your property, you’re ready to decide where you want it to go. An estate planning attorney can assist you in structuring gifts to loved ones and organizations of importance to you.

3. Meet with an estate planning attorney. Seek a qualified professional to counsel you through the process of creating a will and other estate planning documents. The modest amount you spend today on professional help will invariably save your loved ones heartache and money after you’re gone. Also beware of canned, do-it-yourself forms. At best, these address only the most simplistic of situations. At worst, a DIY will puts your heirs at financial and emotional risk.

If we can be of any assistance throughout the planning process, please contact Jamie Hayden, Manager of Development.