Where there’s a will — there’s a way

Earlier this year the UIU Alumni Office collaborated with a company called FreeWill to unveil a new resource for the University community. FreeWill is an intuitive, online will-writing tool that allows anyone to produce a legally binding will in about 20 minutes—and it’s completely free to use. As everyone continues to endure a global health pandemic Upper Iowa University is proud to offer this service to alumni because of the importance it is to have future plans in place.

It may seem complicated, daunting or even frightening to create a will, but it is the best way to protect what matters most. It’s also an incredible way to leave a lasting impact on the causes and institutions, such as UIU, that have meant the most in a person’s in life.

Those who have included UIU in their estate plans or have made some other type of planned gift commitment are recognized and honored with membership to the elite UIU Heritage Society. These members believe in UIU’s mission and want to ensure the University’s valuable educational programs and services will continue for future generations. If UIU is named in an estate plan, it is beneficial for the University to know in order to carry out the individual’s specific charitable intentions.

Although August is drawing to a close, it is National Make a Will Month and what better time to consider planning your will. Since UIU first announced its collaboration with FreeWill, nearly 50 wills have been completed. FreeWill is a useful and practical tool for the Peacock family to use while also providing a peace of mind.

Three Easy Steps to Complete Your Will
1. Fill out online – Visit freewill.com/uiu to get started. It only takes 20 minutes to fill out the information needed to create your last will and testament.
2. Print out forms – The information you provide is combined with the precise language of our legal forms, and provided back to you as a printable will.
3. Sign and keep safe – To make your will official, sign and initial the document in person with your witnesses. Keep your new will somewhere safe but accessible.

QCD Fast Facts
Peacocks over age 70 ½ may also benefit from tax savings through a qualified charitable distribution (QCD). Also referred to as an IRA rollover, individuals can distribute up to $100,000 each year to Upper Iowa University, or other charity of choice, from their IRAs. CARES Act legislation made this optional for 2020, but in other years, a distribution is required. QCDs are another option for generous individuals to be aware of.
For more information, visit freewill.com/qcd/uiu.

To learn more about FreeWill or the UIU Heritage Society, please contact UIU Vice President for External Affairs Andrew Wenthe at wenthea@uiu.edu or 563.425.5348