Confusing isn’t it.  Google “Estate Planning” and you get over 53 million possibilities.  Enter “Wills” and up comes another 35 million possibilities.  Yes, the whole idea is CONFUSING!  It is so confusing that only 3 out of every 10 people actually have made out a will.

For the most part, those of us in the remaining 7 know we need an estate plan in place but how do you even begin to understand Life Estate Contracts, Charitable Lead Trusts, Codicils, etc., etc.

To cut to the bottom line of this piece, because of suggestions and questions from members, the Honorable Order has put a new and free member service in place.  It is an effort to explain, in everyday terms, what’s involved in setting up an estate plan.  If, after exploring the information, you would like to have further assistance we have an agreement with a nationally recognized consulting firm that will help you.  The experts say no matter your net worth, it's important to have a basic estate plan in place.  If you have been able to accumulate a few bucks in your lifetime, it becomes even more important. Such a plan ensures that your family and financial goals are met after you die. 

What’s in for the Honorable Order?  Well, in all honesty, we hope that if you include charitable bequests in your plan that you will include our charitable and educational program.  In any event, you are free to explore the information on your own.  There is even a program that lets you work on a plan all on your own.  At no point will you be asked to provide anyone with any information unless you specifically request assistance.

The consulting firm, by the way, is PhilanthroCorp of Colorado Springs, Colorado.  The company started in the early 80’s working primarily with religious based organizations.  Today they work with groups ranging from the American College of Osteopathic Internists to the Kentucky Baptist Foundation and now, the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels.

To check out the information PhilanthroCorp put together for us, simply click on the “Estate Planning Assistance” link on the right hand side of the screen.