Plan for the Future: Estate Planning Tools and Tips from the ELCA Foundation

August is National Make-a-Will Month, a timely reminder to review your estate plans and ensure they reflect your values and priorities. Whether you’re just beginning the estate planning process or revisiting your existing plans, the ELCA Foundation is here to support you with a wealth of resources.

A current and thoughtful estate plan is more than just a legal document—it’s a way to guarantee that your wishes are honored, bringing peace of mind to you and your loved ones. This month’s issue of the ELCA Foundation newsletter, Insights, is packed with practical tools to help you feel confident in documenting your estate plans.

Some highlights include the “Estate Planning Starters,” a quick guide to setting up your estate plan, and “A Guide to Making Your Will,” which walks you through the essential steps and considerations. For those who prefer an online option, the Foundation offers Giving Docs, a secure, user-friendly will-writing tool available at no cost.

In addition to these resources, the ELCA Foundation encourages you to consider whether a trust might enhance your estate planning, offering benefits like avoiding probate and providing for your beneficiaries in specific ways.

As you reflect on your estate plans this month, consider including an ELCA ministry as a beneficiary of your retirement account or life insurance policy. This simple action can help ensure that your legacy of generosity continues to support the mission of our church for years to come.

If you have any questions or need assistance, Lisa Higginbotham from the ELCA Foundation is ready to help. You can reach her at Lisa.Higginbotham@elca.org or (805) 910-5048.