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You are at: Planned Giving > Learn About Wills and Bequests

Learn About Wills and Bequests


What are the benefits of making a bequest?

  1. You leave a lasting legacy to be remembered
  2. You lessen the burden of taxes on your family
  3. You may receive estate tax savings

How can I learn more?

Contact Us
Watch a Video
Download a Brochure

How do I make a bequest?

A bequest is one of the easiest gifts to make. With the help of an advisor, you can include language in your will or trust specifying a gift be made to family, friends or Community of Christ as part of your estate plan.

View Bequest Language

What are my options?

A bequest can be made in several ways:
  1. You can gift a specific dollar amount or asset
  2. You can gift a percentage of your estate
  3. You can gift from the balance or residue of your estate
  4. You can make a beneficiary designation of certain assets

How do I get started?

Contact Us
Request a Wills Guide
Create an Online Account

The Difference between Wills and Trusts


Wills

A will helps ensure that your wishes are carried out after you pass. It can help you

  1. Specify how assets will be distributed upon death
  2. Name an executor to distribute assets
  3. Allow for payment of debts and taxes
  4. Name a guardian for minor children
  5. Handle other business affairs

A will only becomes effective on your death and will likely go through probate subject to executor fees, legal fees, and taxes.

Trusts

Unlike a will, a living trust allows your estate to avoid probate, thus reducing the time and costs associated with a court settling your estate. Plus, it allows you to

  1. Specify how assets will be distributed during life, in case of incapacity, and after death
  2. Name a trustee to care for assets
  3. Pay debts and taxes
  4. Handle other business affairs to settle your estate
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