The keystone of estate planning is a will: a legal “road map” indicating how you want your possessions distributed. In a will, you also name a personal representative (“executor” or “executrix”) of your estate. This person lists your possessions, pays your debts and then distributes the remainder as you direct. If you have minor children, your will can indicate who you would like to serve as their guardian. (These are only recommendations, but the probate court almost always follows the wishes for guardianship expressed in a will.)

A will also provides an opportunity to make a final statement or testimony, which can be an expression of faith or a statement of love and appreciation. Some people want to include such statements, whereas others view a will more as a business document and do not include them. Either way is appropriate.

If a person dies without a will, state law governs the disbursement of his or her possessions. If the deceased was married or had children, state statute determines what share each will get. In the case of minor children, the court decides guardianship. Without a will, nothing goes to the church, a favorite mission group or any other organization.

In addition to a will, complete estate planning usually includes both durable and health care powers of attorney. A durable power of attorney appoints someone to take care of your finances and other matters if you become incapacitated. A health care power of attorney says who may make health care decisions for you when you are not able to do so. It also indicates whether you want medical professionals to artificially prolong your life or initiate certain lifesaving procedures if you have an irreversible terminal condition.

Once you create these documents, don’t forget to update them. You should certainly consider revising them if you have any major life changes, such as a marriage, divorce, or the birth or death of a child. However, you ought to review all estate planning documents every few years to make sure they still accurately reflect your desires.

Now for some really good news. The Free Methodist Foundation (FMF) will, for no charge, help you think through some of these issues and answer your questions. Their trained professionals are located from coast to coast. After talking over your situation with you, the FMF staff can connect you with a Christian attorney if you want to have a will prepared. At that point, you will incur attorney fees, but they will probably be much lower than they would otherwise, because FMF personnel have already helped you think through issues, gather information and explore resources that answer your questions. The FMF staff is happy to help make this process easier whether or not you choose to leave something to a Free Methodist ministry or group. Also, they will be glad to answer your questions even if you already have estate planning documents in place.

To learn more about wills and living trusts go to www.fmfgiftplan.org
and select “Wills Presentation.” A free “Christian Guide to Wills and Trusts” is available on request by e-mail at info@fmfoundation.org. You can contact FMF at (800) 325-8975 or www.fmfoundation.org.