A will can have a profound effect on the financial well-being of an individual's family members, friends, and selected charitable organizations, all while reflecting their life values. We discuss the key elements, their ability to change or evoke the wheel, and what makes a wheel highly effective.

Someday, when the time comes, each of us will be remembered not just for our actions and connections but for our support of meaningful causes or organizations. We examine the steps donors can take to shape their legacy through the effective and thoughtful use of a will or living trust.

Simple or complex, a will is more than just a tool to distribute assets—it is a reflection of an individual's life values. We highlight six basic steps that will allow donors to make the most effective use of this important legal document.

Some people want the satisfaction of supporting a meaningful cause but don't feel they can make the gift immediately. We look at the many benefits of making a gift in a will – simplicity, flexible implementation and timing, ease of making changes, the potential tax impact, and more.

A gift in a will is a popular, simple, and flexible way to give, but some assets generate greater tax advantages than others. We explore the treatment of various assets to help donors effectively tailor their gifts to their own personal circumstances and objectives.

A bequest is an easy way to make a gift in a will that allows for flexibility and modifications. We review the basics using a short selection of questions and answers on this popular giving method.