Learn About Wills and Bequests
What are the benefits of making a bequest?
- You leave a lasting legacy to be remembered
- You lessen the burden of taxes on your family
- You may receive estate tax savings
How can I learn more?
How do I make a bequest?
A bequest is one of the easiest gifts to make. With the help of an advisor, you can include language in your will or trust specifying a gift be made to family, friends or St. John's Foundation as part of your estate plan.
A Word of Caution about Bequests
Making Bequests Through Your Will
Only assets that have no identifiable beneficiary designation will pass through your will.
Most assets, including bank and investment accounts, have an option for a beneficiary designation using a Payable on Death agreement (POD) or Transfer on Death agreement (TOD). Living and testamentary trusts, life insurance annuities and all qualified retirement plans have inherent beneficiary designations. None of these assets pass through your will.
Learn more about Beneficiary Designations to make a gift
What are my options?
A bequest can be made in several ways:
