Estate planning allows people to control what happens to their possessions after their passing. Without a legally recognized plan in place, the government may dictate how someone’s assets are distributed. While there are numerous informal approaches to estate planning, not all are legally recognized. This may create confusion and spark conflict among families during an already challenging time. 

To increase consumer knowledge on estate planning and asset distribution, the Scott County Extension Office hosted a series of four workshops from the Transferring Cherished Possessions curriculum. This program was also conducted in partnership with Elder Care Law, Bluegrass Care Navigators, and the Our Community, Our Health (OCOH) initiative. 

Evaluations placed educational emphasis on four things:

1. Understanding the importance of clear family goals in determining how non-titled property will be distributed upon death.
2. Determining what "fair" distribution means for the division of non-titled assets.
3. Identifying different methods for distributing personal property.
4. Communicating estate plans clearly while minimizing family conflict.

At least 18 consumers participated in the workshop, in person, while many others participated asynchronously online.

As a result of participating in the Transferring Cherished Possessions program in person, 94.4% of respondents indicated they were better able to understand where to start estate planning for non-titled possessions; 100% better understood how to consider fairness when making a plan to distribute their assets; 88.89% better understood different methods of asset distribution; and 88.89% gained strategies to more clearly communicate their estate plans and goals with loved ones.  

Further, reported behavior changes included:

1. 66.67% indicated they would write a Letter of Last Instructions.
2. 66.67% indicated they would create an Asset Distribution Plan.
3. 88.33% indicated they had created or updated their will.
4. 55.56% indicated they had discussed their estate plans with a professional.

As a result of the program, one participant noted that their biggest take away from the program was that it is better to, “get everything in order sooner than later.” Another indicated that is important to have, “complete estate plans.”

Overall, the program gave those who participated valuable tools that they can apply to planning and transferring their possessions. The Scott County Extension Agent plans to conduct similar programs in the future.