You don’t have to be wealthy to leave a lasting legacy

Nicola Lawrence

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Opinion

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When people hear “estate planning,” they often picture mansions, yachts and endless bank accounts. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Estate planning is simply about deciding what matters to you and making sure your wishes are honored once you have passed.

Whether it’s family, friends, pets or a cause close to your heart, a will is a powerful way to protect what you love and share your values. You don’t need millions of dollars to leave behind something meaningful. If you have a home, a car, a savings account or a retirement plan, you have a legacy worth planning.

Everyone has something worth passing on

More than half of American adults don’t have a will. Many feel that wills are only for the wealthy, or that they’re too complicated. But planning your estate isn’t about how much you have, it’s about making the most of it. It’s about love, thoughtfulness and making your own decisions rather than leaving things to the courts.

And the best part? You can get started today, easily and affordably.

Wills don’t have to be complicated

Tools like FreeWill.com make creating a will simple and it’s free, thanks to the company’s partnerships with more than 2,200 businesses and nonprofits. In about 20 minutes, you can spell out your wishes, name guardians and even leave a gift to the causes that matter most to you.

A gift in your will won’t cost anything now, but it can make a lasting difference later. For example, a bequest to organization’s like Phoenix Children’s helps ensure every child receives world-class care when they need it most.

Ready to start? Here’s how to take the first step

• Think about who and what matters most in your life.
• Make a list of your assets, whether big or small.
• Choose the people you trust to carry out your wishes.
• Try a platform like FreeWill to document your decisions.
• Consider making a charitable gift to a cause that reflects your values.

It’s more than a will — it’s your voice

A will isn’t just paperwork. It’s a reflection of your hopes, your values and your love for others. Including a charitable gift sends a message about the kind of world you want to leave behind.

You don’t have to be wealthy to make a lasting impact. You just have to write it down.

Editor’s note: Nicola Lawrence is vice president of individual giving at Phoenix Children’s Foundation. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.