A Spring Legacy Tune-Up

Five quick checks worth doing now

Spring has a way of nudging us toward fresh starts – clearing closets, opening windows, and getting life a little more in order. It’s also a perfect season for a light “legacy clean-up.” These small updates can spare your family confusion and ensure your philanthropic intentions are honored.

Here are five actions that typically take less than 30 minutes. Small updates, done regularly, tend to prevent the biggest headaches later on.

Review your beneficiary designations. Retirement accounts and life insurance pass by beneficiary form – not your will – so take a moment to be sure the names, percentages, and backup heirs (who can receive your assets if loved ones cannot) still reflect your wishes.

Revisit your “who and why.” Life changes such as marriage, divorce, a new grandchild, a move, or a cause that’s become especially meaningful. Make sure your plans still reflect what matters most to you.

Update decision-makers. Are your executor, powers of attorney, and healthcare agent still the right people for the job? Be sure they know where to find important documents when they’re needed.

Create a “legacy file.” One page is enough: your key contacts, a list of accounts, where passwords are stored, and any notes about your intentions. Even a simple checklist can be a gift to those who may one day need to help.

If you’ve included Mary Washington in your estate plans, please let us know. Sharing your plans allows us to honor your generosity and welcome you into our Heritage Society – there’s no minimum gift, only our sincere gratitude.

At Mary Washington, Heritage Society members receive a pin, invitations to special events throughout the year, and more –so your spring tune-up can also keep you connected to the people and programs you care about.

This article was written by Executive Director of Gift Planning and Major Gifts Jeremy Vaughn ’08 and originally ran in the Spring 2026 Gift Planning Connections newsletter. For more information about estate planning, visit our website, email Jeremy, or call 540-654-2063.