The holiday season brings moments of reflection—gathering with family, sharing stories, and enjoying traditions that remind us what truly matters. Amid all the celebrations, there’s one meaningful gift many people overlook:
Creating a plan to pass on your legacy.
Legacy planning isn’t just financial—it’s emotional. It protects the people you love and ensures the life you’ve worked hard to build continues to support your family and reflect your values. For many in our community, where family connections and long-term stability matter deeply, legacy planning is one of the most impactful gifts you can give.
Why Legacy Planning Matters for Local Families
Whether you live along the Lakeshore, in the Grand Rapids area, or anywhere throughout our region, you’ve worked hard to build something meaningful. A thoughtful legacy plan ensures your wishes are honored and provides clarity for your loved ones by answering:
- What will happen to your assets
- Who will receive what—and how
- How to avoid unnecessary stress, delays, or confusion
- How to protect spouses, children, and grandchildren
The holidays naturally bring conversations about the future—retirement goals, caring for aging parents, college savings for grandchildren, and how to support family for years to come. Legacy planning fits right into that mindset.
Legacy Is Not “Later.” It’s a Decision for Today.
Many people assume they’ll get to estate and retirement planning “someday.” But life moves quickly, and the right time to prepare is before you need the plan.
By acting now, you gain:
- Confidence that your wishes will be honored
- Peace of mind knowing your family is protected
- A clear roadmap for your financial future
Retirement should be a time of enjoyment—not uncertainty.
How an Annuity Can Support Your Legacy Plan
Annuities are often used in retirement and legacy planning because they offer:
- Protection from market downturns, reducing risk during volatile times
- Index-linked interest potential for long-term growth
- Predictable retirement income, which helps preserve wealth for the next generation
For families who want to build security while planning ahead for those they love, an annuity can be a powerful foundation.
Income Enhancement Bonuses That Strengthen Your Plan
Some annuities provide an income-enhancing bonus applied to premiums during the early years of the contract. This bonus is typically credited immediately, increasing the value used to calculate future income.
For retirement income, this feature adds stability.
For legacy planning, it may offer additional value to beneficiaries—depending on contract features and state options.
This can be especially meaningful for families who want to make sure their loved ones receive support efficiently and intentionally.
Why Families Appreciate This Approach During the Holidays
- Predictable income helps protect your legacy. A well-structured strategy can preserve the assets you want to pass down.
- It encourages intentional decision-making. An enhanced income base helps you manage retirement withdrawals wisely.
- Beneficiary planning becomes more straightforward. Clear designations keep your wishes front-and-center and reduce complications for your loved ones.
- It allows you to leave a meaningful legacy—not just financial assets. You’re able to support your family with clarity, structure, and long-term purpose.
Make This Holiday Season About Meaning, Not Just Memories
Family, generosity, and preparation are core values in our community. Legacy planning reflects all three. It is one of the clearest ways to say:
“I love you enough to make this easier.”
This holiday season, consider giving a gift that lasts long after the decorations come down:
a plan, a path, and a legacy passed on with intention.
