They set aside a certain dollar amount, or leave a percentage of their estate, or any assets left over after their family has been provided for. Some people donate something they own, like a car or their home. Others leave a paid-up life insurance policy, retirement account, or other financial instrument. Anyone can leave a gift. Estate is simply a word describing any money or belongings you have at the time of your death.
Most people have an estate, even if they have modest income.
Through your will, you can continue to give back to your community beyond your lifetime. A charitable bequest will not take effect unless the beneficiary, such as Seattle Emergency Housing Service is stated in your will or trust. Some exceptions to this include life insurance policies and retirement plans that are distributed to the beneficiaries named in those plans or policies. That is up to you. Nonprofits often like to know we can recognize your generosity.