Peace of Mind
Estate Planning 101
Planning your estate gives you peace of mind. It ensures that your wishes are honored
and your loved ones are cared for.
Estate Planning Checklist
To ensure your estate plan is up to date and comprehensive, consider these steps.
- Create an Inventory – List all assets, debts, and important documents.
- Review Beneficiary Designations – Ensure that your retirement accounts, life insurance
policies, and other beneficiary designations align with your wishes.
- Draft the Five Essential Estate Planning Documents.
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- Will – Specifies how your assets will be distributed and allows you to name guardians
for minors.
- Trust – Helps manage and distribute assets while potentially avoiding probate.
- Financial Power of Attorney – Grant a trusted individual authority to handle financial
matters on your behalf if you become unable to do so.
- Health Care Power of Attorney – Designate someone to make medical decisions for you
if you are incapacitated.
- Living Will or Advance Directive – Communicate your health care preferences in case
of serious illness or incapacity.
Sample Will Language
“I give to the University of Wyoming Foundation (a nonprofit corporation located at
222 S. 22nd Street, Laramie, Wyoming, or its successor), [$ amount, % of the estate,
or description of the property] to benefit the University of Wyoming generally [or
as specifically described].”
Tax Identification Number: 83-0201971
Need Help Getting Started?
We’re here to help you take the next step in planning your legacy. To talk over your
options, contact Brett Befus, Associate Vice President for Development, at (307) 766-4259
or bbefus@uwyo.edu.
