A Lasting Impact - Why everyone needs a will
In a world where every action counts, planning for the future takes on a profound significance. Whether you’re 18 or 108, everyone should have a will. People use their will to choose who gets their property, name guardians for minor children or grandchildren, provide a plan for pets, and more. Gifts made in your will are those you can continue to use during your lifetime and potentially reduce your estate tax burden.
Through a will, you can choose to name the Walla Walla YMCA as a beneficiary and make an impact on Y causes that you love for years to come.
Why plan now?
Because the future is shaped by the decisions we make today. By thoughtfully planning today you can provide for your loved ones and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It’s not just about generosity, it’s about vision.
Let your legacy be one of community, compassion, and commitment. Join others who have chosen to create a lasting impact.
Create Your FreeWill
You can build a legacy that strengthens the foundation of our community by including a gift of any size in your will or trust. We have partnered with FreeWill because their secure online tool guides you through creating your will or trust in just 20 minutes. You can use this free resource on its own, or use it to document your wishes before finalizing your plans with an attorney.
Gift Intent Form
Have you already included a gift to the YMCA in your will or trust? Please fill out this form to let us know! We would love to thank you for your generosity.
Designate Your Beneficiaries
Assets not included in your will are called non-probate assets. Examples are 401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance policies, and other accounts. Designating the Walla Walla YMCA as a beneficiary can have a big impact and may avoid unwanted taxes for your heirs. FreeWill can also help you plan for all of your non-probate assets.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a “non-probate” asset?
A non-probate asset is an account or other asset that won’t be governed by the decisions you make in a will. Instead, these accounts commonly have an assigned beneficiary that you choose. Types of non-probate assets include many retirement accounts, life insurance, some bank accounts and some assets (like a house or vehicle) that you jointly own with another person.
Which non-probate asset is most commonly given to charity?
The most commonly gifted non-probate asset is an IRA or 401(k). This is because these accounts are always taxed (even for people below the estate tax threshold). Giving these accounts to charity keeps your heirs from having to pay unexpected taxes.
Is a beneficiary designation different from a will?
Yes! Even if you have a will in place you still need to designate beneficiaries for your non-probate assets.
Is my estate big enough to leave a planned gift?
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
Does it cost anything to make beneficiary designations?
No. You can usually make these easily and at no cost to you.
Can I edit my designations after I’m done?
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Can my gift remain anonymous?
Yes! Knowing in advance about your intentions is quite helpful to our staff, but you are always welcome to not share your gift.
Does it cost anything to plan my estate?
We’ve partnered with FreeWill to help you make a will or trust at no cost to you. You can use this to complete your plans, or you may choose to use the same tools to get your affairs in order before visiting an attorney (who is likely to have a fee associated with finalizing your plans).
Can I edit my documents after I’m done?
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Is my private information secure with FreeWill?
Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.