A will is the cornerstone of estate planning. It is your right, through your will, to determine who gets what at your death. In the absence of a will, the state in which you live furnishes a ready-made will that distributes property according to a formula, seldom according to your wishes, and does not consider the tax implications of the estate distribution.

Why create a legacy?

A legacy is a gift for the future - and for generations to come. A gift upon death is a final opportunity for personal fulfillment and a chance to declare and continue your values to family and others you love. You do not have to be wealthy to leave a legacy.

Why include Global Health Ministries?

Global Health Ministries (GHM) provides financial and material support to Lutheran
health care mission programs in the developing countries. GHM funds come from friends such as you who are deeply concerned about the health needs in developing countries and who want to provide funds to health care mission programs.

There are several ways to create a legacy in your will

A specific bequest: A particular asset that you designate to go to GHM.

A residual bequest: A percentage of your estate that you designate to go to GHM.

General bequest: A specific stated sum of money to go to GHM.

Stock or securities: a gift of appreciated stocks or bonds to GHM can be more advantageous for tax reasons than giving cash.

Living bequest: For example, property you intend to leave GHM under your will could be placed in a lifetime charitable remainder trust which allows an immediate charitable tax deduction based on your age(s) for the present value of GHM's remainder interest.

Other bequest: Gift annuities, life insurance and retirement funds.

How to get started?

Contact your legal or professional advisor or send in your request for further information. We at GHM are not able to advise on any legal matters related to creating a legacy but we can refer you to someone who will answer your questions.