Will Power

Most Americans know they need a will. Current estimates, however, indicate that only 35 percent of Americans have one. Ironically, research shows that people often procrastinate addressing this issue because they believe it is too complicated for them to handle without legal or other professional help. Fortunately, most people don’t need a lawyer to write a will. In fact, writing a will does not have to be complicated or expensive.

Most people may be interested to know that when a lawyer drafts a will, he or she usually starts with a standard form that contains the same type of clauses contained in most “do-it-yourself" will software programs at the neighborhood office supply store. Thus, a great deal of self-help information is available for the people who take the time to educate themselves.

This may not be the case, however, if a will involves estate planning, probate, or other legal situations. In such instances, consulting an attorney and/or a financial professional for guidance is strongly recommended.

A will is a written testimonial of one’s concern for his or her family and loved ones. It is also a way to show others what one values in life, including people and organizations that matter most.

Remembering a Favorite Charitable Organization. A favorite charity may be included in a will in a few different ways. For example, one may make a bequest to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA). For bequests, the following language may be useful to an attorney or anyone making a will.

"I hereby give, devise, and bequeath to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA), a nonprofit corporation organized and operating under the laws of the Commonwealth of New Jersey, the sum of $________or________percent of my estate or the following property:___________."

If the writer has an exact purpose for the request, such as general operations or a specific program(s), this should be stated here.

“In making this gift, it is my intention to serve the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America and its clients. I desire that the foregoing statement of purpose be liberally construed so that this objective may be fully accomplished." For other ways to include MSAA in your charitable plans, please give the Development Office a call at 1-800-532-7667, ext. 117.

- Dennis Harris
MSAA’s Director of Individual Giving