You can bypass the probate process using a variety of legal methods (called “will substitutes”) when making a gift to the United Church of God or other causes you support.

Bene­fits of will substitutes

• These are designed to be easy to set up and modify. Most allow simple transfers of ownership, and you can easily name or change bene­ficiaries as your life situation changes.
• They avoid probate, which usually reduces fees and allows for a quicker distribution.
• They may allow you to reduce your overall estate taxes.
• Most providers of these products will help you through the setup process and assist with changes and disbursements.

Common types of will substitutes

• Bank “Payable-on-Death” or “In Trust For” accounts
• Investment Transfer-on-Death (TOD) accounts
• Real Estate Trusts
• Life insurance or annuity contracts
• Naming bene­ficiaries on retirement plans (such as 401k, 403b, 457, IRA and SEP)
• Deeds of Title (with rights of survivorship) whereby a co-owner becomes sole owner on your  death might include:
  • Joint tenancy
  • Tenants by Entirety
  • Community property

As you can tell, estate matters can be complicated. Some will substitutes may have setup costs or need legal wording that requires professional assistance.