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Legacy

Wills and trusts. Protect your family, preserve your wealth.

A properly prepared will and trust means your wishes are followed and your family is not left guessing.

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Most people know they should have this in place. The cost of not having it falls entirely on the people left behind, at the worst possible time.

Wills

  • Your wishes recorded clearly enough to be followed
  • Guardianship decided by you rather than a court

Trusts

  • Probate avoided — time saved, costs reduced, affairs kept private
  • Control over how and when assets pass on

Beneficiary review

  • Every account and policy checked and brought up to date
  • The most common and most expensive oversight there is

Legacy planning

  • Wealth transferred with the tax treatment you intended
  • Values passed on alongside assets

Beneficiary designations beat your will

A retirement account or policy pays whoever is named on it, regardless of what your will says. An out-of-date designation quietly overrides the document you paid to have drawn up.

Reviewing them costs nothing and is the single highest-value hour in estate planning.

Would your family know what to do?

Where the documents are, which accounts exist, who to call. This is rarely written down anywhere, and it is the part families struggle with most.

Take the first step today

Plan today. Protect tomorrow. Leave a lasting legacy.

On the form, select “Estate planning (wills & trusts)”.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a Will and a Trust?

A Will directs how your assets are distributed after your death, while a Trust can manage and distribute assets without going through probate, providing more privacy and control.

What exactly does mortgage protection cover?

Mortgage protection is life insurance sized to your mortgage, so your family can pay it off or keep making payments if you pass away. Depending on the policy, riders can also help if you become critically ill or disabled.

Do I need both a Will and a Trust?

While a Will is essential for directing your estate after death, a Trust provides greater control, privacy and protection for your assets during your lifetime and beyond. Many people choose both for comprehensive planning.

Can I make changes to my Will or Trust after they are created?

Yes, both Wills and Trusts can be updated or amended. It’s important to review your estate plan periodically to ensure it reflects changes in your life circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant financial changes.

What happens if I die without a Will or Trust?

If you die without a Will or Trust, your estate will be distributed according to state laws, which may not align with your wishes. This process, called "intestate succession," can be lengthy and costly, often leading to family disputes.