Leaving a Legacy of Love: Catholic Estate Planning Essentials

A Will states your wishes regarding how your property and assets should be distributed after your death as a legal document. In addition to distributing assets, a Will allows you to:

• Nominate a guardian for minor children: Without a Will, the court decides who will raise them.
• Ensure fair distribution of assets: Without a Will, state laws dictate who receives your property.
• Support Catholic charities: You can continue giving beyond your lifetime.
• Reduce legal disputes: A clear Will helps prevent family conflicts.
• Appoint an executor: Someone you trust will handle your estate, not a court-appointed administrator.

If you pass away without a Will, your estate goes through a legal process called intestate probate. This means state laws determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes. Additionally, the court makes guardianship decisions for minor children, pets, and other important matters rather than your family. This process can take months or even years, causing stress and financial burdens for loved ones.

One common concern in estate planning is the cost of working with an attorney. Legal fees can be expensive, often discouraging people from creating a Will. However, Catholic Legacy offers an easy, no-cost way to create a Will that’s legally valid online in just 30 minutes.

You can start your Will today for free by visiting Catholic Legacy’s estate planning page.

Yes, you can include Catholic charities in your Estate Plan. Many Catholics choose to support their parish, Catholic schools, pro-life initiatives, or other charitable organizations through their Will. This is a meaningful way to ensure that your faith-driven mission continues even after you’ve passed. Once you create a Will using Catholic Legacy, you may choose to consult with a lawyer if you have a more complex estate or specific legal concerns.

Some of the most common reasons people delay creating a Will include:

• Believing it’s unnecessary: Many assume their family knows their wishes, but legal decisions are based on state laws, not verbal agreements.
• Not wanting to think about death: While it’s difficult, Estate planning is an act of love and responsibility.
• Concerns about cost: Many don’t realize that free and affordable options are available.

By taking a proactive approach, you can prevent unnecessary stress and ensure your family is protected.

Yes, you should update your Will during significant life events, such as:

• Changes in marital status
• Birth of a child or grandchild
• Significant changes in financial status
• Moving to a different state with different estate laws
• Changes in charitable giving plans

Regularly reviewing your Will ensures it continues to reflect your current wishes.