Being prepared is a key principle of the American Red Cross. So, throughout the month of August, we are encouraging folks to plan ahead and organize their financial affairs. To help you get started, we are offering a few resources.

Have you been putting off preparing or updating your will because, like so many of us, you found the process complicated?

Download our free “Touching the Future,” guide and workbook now to help make this process simpler at Redcrosslegacy.org/workbook. This electronic booklet provides a convenient place to gather all your important information concerning your assets, documents and wishes. This customizable, digital workbook allows you to fill out, edit, save and print as the need arises.

This informative, easy-to-use resource is not only helpful for organizing your assets and information, it’s also a powerful tool for creating a will that reflects your values, looks after the well-being of family and friends, and honors the causes that have been important in your life. Additionally, it serves as a handy reference for making sure an existing will is complete and up to date.

Once you are ready to take the next step in being prepared, the Red Cross has partnered with FreeWill.com/Redcross to provide a secure, online tool that will take you through the will preparation process step by step. If you have a simple estate, you can print your legal will to be signed and witnessed. If you have a more complex estate (or if you have any concerns at all), the same tools will help you document your wishes and help find a qualified attorney near you to finalize your plans. The site also allows you to set up additional documents, like an Advance Healthcare Directive and a Durable Financial Power of Attorney.

If you already have a will, you’ll want to examine it periodically to make sure it continues to reflect your wishes.

Your will is one of the most personal and important financial documents in your life. Without a legitimate will, you can’t be sure how your affairs and assets will be handled. Many Red Cross supporters are making the choice to be prepared, and we hope you will too.For questions or further conversation on strengthening your readiness, contact: Colleen Becht-Foltz, gift planning officer serving Pennsylvania, at 215-380-3291 or Colleen.BechtFoltz@redcross.org.