Estate planning can entail difficult choices, but once your plan is in place, it provides a sense of relief and peace of mind. You’ll know that you have done your best to plan and provide for yourself and for loved ones, as well as for the causes you’ve cared about during your lifetime.

If your estate is subject to estate tax, giving through your estate plan generates a charitable estate tax deduction, which may result in substantial tax savings. You may direct all or a portion of your estate to Bates. 

Sample bequest language is offered below for your legal counsel’s consideration in preparing your will or trust.

While you may transfer many of your assets through your will or living trust, a document called a beneficiary designation controls distribution of your retirement plans, life insurance policies, commercial annuities and a variety of financial accounts.