For many of us, death and faith are very much intertwined. Therefore, when contemplating death, it makes sense to evaluate ways in which our faith can be integrated into our estate planning documents. As a Colorado Springs Estate Attorney, I meet with clients from many different cultures and religious backgrounds every day. Many of them have a desire to communicate their faith and comply with its doctrines as the end of life nears. Here are some simple ways to do so.
1. Add a Statement of Faith into your Last Will & Testament
One way to integrate your faith into your estate plan is to add a final profession of your beliefs into your Last Will and Testament. This is often called a Statement of Faith, and it can provide a sense of peace and comfort to your loved ones as they read through your Will after you have passed on. A less formal, but still meaningful way to accomplish the same goal is to write a final letter to family that incorporates a statement of your faith within it. However, keep in mind that a letter like this does not take the place of a Will when it comes to distributing your assets and appointing your legal decision makers.
2. Make a Final Tithe at Death
Tithing, or giving, is another important component within many religions. Whether the giving is to your church or to another charitable or religious organization, an experienced estate planning attorney can help you achieve your final charitable desires by incorporating a final tithe into your Will or Trust.
3. Use an Advanced Directive for End-of-life Planning
Advanced Directives, which are often called Living Wills, are used to give you control over end-of-life decisions, such as the removal of life support. Some religions have very specific guidelines when it comes to blood transfusions, removing life-support, and assisted suicide. As an attorney who works with many religious clients, I have special forms designated for clients whose religious beliefs impact end-of-life decisions, so make sure to discuss your preferences during the estate planning process.
4. Provide Instructions for Funeral and Treatment of Last Remains
Whether you would like a funeral, memorial, mass, celebration of life, or quiet gathering at a local restaurant, your family should know your desires in advance. You have the ability to choose the church, cemetery, music, passages of scripture, and location for your ashes to be stored or scattered. If it is important to you, it needs to be communicated to your family in a signed writing.
Many people of faith believe that death is only the beginning. Whether or not that is the case in your religion, there are many ways to help ensure that your faith holds a place of prominence in death, just as it did during your life. At Goines Law, we understand how important your faith is, so we do our best to incorporate your wishes into your estate plan.
