If you are like the majority of Americans, you probably have postponed the important step of planning your estate, your will or trust. You are not alone. In fact, 7 out of 10 adult Americans die without a will.

A properly structured estate plan is an essential part of our stewardship responsibility to our family and protects us in the event of an incapacitating illness as well as our death.

An estate plan provides for your wishes and includes the following basic documents:

Last Will and Testament: This document allows for you to tell the probate court how you want your estate to be distributed at your death and who you want to serve as guardian for your minor children.

Durable Power of Attorney: This document grants authority to named persons to act on your behalf related to your financial matters or healthcare matters if you become incapacitated.

Advanced Directive for Healthcare: This document allows you to give directions on end-of-life issues related to life support and feeding tubes.

Revocable Trust: This document allows for your estate to be distributed without the necessity of probate if the trust is properly funded.

Did you know that the Foundation will reimburse a portion of your legal fees if you leave a 10 percent charitable gift, at least half of which must be to a Baptist ministry and can include the church you attend?

Contact Sue Clifton at 800.949.9988 or e-mail sclifton@bfok.org for more information.