Planning Ahead: Why National Make-A-Will Month Matters for Families of Individuals with I/DD
August is National Make-A-Will Month—a timely reminder that planning for the future is one of the most meaningful gifts we can give the people we love.
For parents and family members of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), planning ahead can be especially important. While it may be difficult to think about a future when you may no longer be able to provide support, having a plan in place can help bring greater peace of mind and clarity for your loved one and the people who will support them.
A Will Is More Than a Legal Document
Creating a will allows you to make important decisions about how your assets should be handled and who you want to benefit from your estate. For families supporting an individual with I/DD, estate planning can also be an opportunity to think more broadly about their loved one's long-term needs, relationships, financial security and quality of life.
Planning ahead can help answer important questions such as:
Who will help advocate for my loved one's needs in the future?
How can I help ensure resources are available to support their quality of life?
What information should future caregivers and family members know?
Have I communicated my wishes to the people who may play an important role in my loved one's future?
How can I leave a meaningful legacy for my family and the causes that matter to me?
These conversations aren't only for parents. Siblings, grandparents, extended family members and family friends can also play an important role in planning for the future and creating a lasting legacy.
Consider Including InCommunity in Your Legacy
Many families and friends of individuals supported by InCommunity have a deep connection to our mission and want to help ensure that opportunities and supports are available for generations to come.
Including InCommunity as a beneficiary in your estate plan is one way to create a lasting impact. A planned gift can help strengthen the future of programs and services that empower individuals with I/DD to live, work, learn and participate fully in their communities.
There are several tools to consider:
Charitable Bequests: Leave a specific dollar amount, percentage, or asset through your will or living trust.
Charitable Gift Annuities: Transfer cash or property to InCommunity in exchange for fixed, reliable lifetime payments and potential tax deductions.
IRA Rollovers (QCD): Individuals age 70½ or older can make direct distributions from a traditional IRA to lower taxable income.
Beneficiary Designations: Name InCommunity as a direct beneficiary on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, or bank accounts (payable-on-death).
Charitable Trusts: Set up structures like remainder trusts or "Give It Twice" trusts to provide income to family members before the remaining principal goes to the charity.
Whether you are creating a will for the first time or reviewing an existing estate plan, National Make-A-Will Month is a great opportunity to take that next step.
If you are interested in learning more about or including InCommunity in your estate plans, please contact Shannon McClure, Chief Development Officer, at foundation@incommunityga.org.
Planning for the future doesn't mean focusing on what comes next—it means helping create a future filled with possibility, security and opportunity for the people who matter most.
Please consult with your attorney, financial advisor or other qualified professional for advice specific to your individual circumstances.