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Estate planning: it’s not just for the wealthy

Estate planning isn’t only for people with extensive assets or complicated finances. It’s for anyone who wants a say in what happens to what they’ve built, no matter the size.

Philanthropy & Giving

Published: October 13, 2026

Estate planning: it’s not just for the wealthy

This October 19 through 25 marks National Estate Planning Awareness Week, and here’s something worth thinking about: estate planning isn’t only for people with extensive assets or complicated finances. It’s for anyone who wants a say in what happens to what they’ve built, no matter the size.

At its heart, estate planning is about preserving what matters for the people and causes you love. That might mean naming who cares for your children, deciding who receives your savings, or making sure a favorite charity is remembered.

One question we encourage everyone to ask themselves: “Are there causes I’d like to include in my plans?” You don’t need significant wealth to leave a meaningful legacy. Even a small bequest or a beneficiary designation on a retirement account can make a lasting difference.

If you’re ready to explore your options, seek guidance from an experienced estate planning attorney and take the time now to plan thoughtfully for the future.

See a comprehensive list of Community Foundation-recognized advisors

How the Community Foundation can help

The Community Foundation of Greater Memphis manages charitable funds for individuals, families, and companies. Partnering with the Community Foundation helps you give more intentionally, grow your impact, and support the causes you care about—today and for generations to come.

A deferred fund can be a valuable tool that both serves your charitable intentions through your estate planning and cuts down on additional legal fees as your plans and priorities evolve. Explore the benefits below.

Infographic titled Simplify Estate Planning While Creating a Lasting Charitable Legacy, listing six benefits of a deferred fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, including simplified financial planning, tax savings, and stewardship.
Infographic titled Simplify Estate Planning While Creating a Lasting Charitable Legacy, listing six benefits of a deferred fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, including simplified financial planning, tax savings, and stewardship.

The team at the Community Foundation is honored to serve as a resource as you build your charitable plans and pursue your philanthropic objectives for making a difference in the community. This content is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, accounting, or financial planning advice. Please consult your tax or legal advisor to learn how this information might apply to your own situation.

Here to help

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Caroline Kuebler, CAP®, IPA

Managing Director of Philanthropic Services

Creating a new fund, referring friends and family, and philanthropic education

(901) 722-0036

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Jennie Dickerson, CFRE

Director of Philanthropy

Learning more about and supporting the FOREVER Funds

(901) 722-0050

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Jim Marconi, CAP®, IPA

Philanthropic Advisor

Cultivating relationships with professional advisors

(901) 722-0037

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Angela Richards

Philanthropic Services Associate

Information for prospective donors and professional advisors

(901) 722-0019

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