Protect your loved ones, gain peace of mind, and support a healthier future for Canadians living with lung disease.
Having a Will is about more than distributing assets—it’s about making a lasting impact. During Leave a Legacy Month, we invite you to think beyond today and consider how your legacy can help shape a healthier tomorrow for all Canadians.
Top Benefits of Having a Will
- Control Over Your Estate
Without a will, provincial laws will determine the distribution of your assets. This may mean that close friends or family members, such as common-law partners, might not receive anything if not legally recognized. Having a will enables you to decide who gets what, ensuring your intentions are respected. - Appoint Guardians for Minor Children
Parents can specify who they would like to care for their children if the unthinkable happens. Without a will, a court may appoint a guardian, potentially causing distress and complications within the family. By naming a guardian, you can help secure your child’s future in the way you envision. - Designate an Executor
An executor is responsible for carrying out your last wishes, managing your estate, paying any outstanding debts, and distributing assets as outlined. By selecting someone you trust, you avoid court delays, as well as any potential conflicts or confusion among loved ones regarding who should take on this responsibility. - Save Your Loved Ones Time and Money
The probate process can be lengthy and costly, especially if there is no will to validate your wishes. Having a clear will simplifies this process, saving your family both time and money, and avoiding possible court fees and disputes.
Key Elements Included in a Will
A well-structured will often includes:
- Beneficiaries: Listing who will receive specific assets, including any savings, investments, property, or sentimental items.
- Guardianship of Minor Children: Appointing one or more guardians for children, if applicable.
- Executor(s): Naming the person responsible for overseeing your estate.
- Specific Gifts: Detailing any special possessions, such as family heirlooms, to be passed on to particular people.
It’s also important to note what not to include in a will, such as funeral instructions or jointly-owned assets, which automatically pass to the surviving owner.
Leave a Gift to Lung Health
By including the Lung Health Foundation in your Will, you’re investing in a future where Canadians can live longer, healthier lives free from lung disease. Your legacy can fund life-changing programs, cutting-edge research, and critical advocacy that protects future generations.
Not sure where to start? Our trusted partner, Epilogue Wills, offers a free and easy Will Planner tool to help you take the first step.
This May, honour Leave a Legacy Month by taking action.
Secure your loved ones’ future—and leave a lasting gift of breath.