The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Every adult, no matter your age or your net worth, needs an estate plan.  An estate plan is comprised of one or more documents such as a will, trust and/or beneficiary designation form that control who will pay your final expenses and distribute your assets according to your wishes. This is the plan you determine for the disposal of your estate, which includes where your money in bank accounts, stocks, life insurance policies, personal property and real estate, will go.

Why do you need an estate plan?

Estate plans ensure that your wishes are honored. Creating an estate plan will ensure that your assets go to the people and places you choose, and that your beneficiaries receive your assets. If you take the time and care to plan your estate now, you can provide for your wishes after your lifetime. 

If you do not have an estate plan, you risk state law determining who will receive your assets.

What do you need to create or update your estate plan?

There are five important questions to consider as you start to plan your estate:
•    What are my assets?
•    Whom do I want to receive those assets?
•    What do I want to accomplish with my estate plan?
•    Who can help me plan my estate?
•    Who will manage my estate?

Find out more about each of these questions in our helpful Starting to Plan Your Estate brochure. 

Or, if you aren’t sure where to start, find out how to create your estate plan.

Did you know you should review your will every few years? You can find tips to update your current estate plan.

And, read an Estate  Administrator’s tips on keeping your estate plan in order. 

Are you part of a unmarried couple?

Estate planning for unmarried or same-sex couples involves some unique challenges. Find information on estate planning for unmarried couples.   

How can you help the Conservancy through your estate plan?

For many individuals, ensuring that the important work carried out by their favorite charities continues after their lifetime is important. If you are interested in supporting the Conservancy through your estate plan, find out how to name The Nature Conservancy in your will or trust.

If you have already named the Conservancy in your will, we thank you and ask that you please let us know about your plans. Knowing of your commitment to the Conservancy helps us to plan for our work in the future, and also ensures we can honor your wishes.

Plus, naming the Conservancy in your estate plans makes you a member of The Legacy Club.

You can protect wetlands and other natural places by making a planned gift with The Nature Conservancy. Contact us today.