For decades, credit unions have been at the forefront of financial education, helping members manage savings, loans, and retirement. But in 2025, financial wellness isn’t just about budgeting—it’s about securing a member’s financial legacy. This is where estate planning fits in.
The Growing Need for Estate Planning
Estate planning has traditionally been seen as a complex, attorney-driven process, but that perception is shifting. With the rise of digital estate planning solutions like Gentreo, members can now create and manage their wills, healthcare proxies, and powers of attorney online. According to industry reports, over 60% of Americans still do not have a will, putting their assets and families at risk.
Without a proper estate plan, families may face lengthy probate battles, unnecessary taxes, and disputes over assets. The financial impact of not having an estate plan can be devastating. For example, without a will, a person’s estate could be distributed based on state laws rather than their wishes, potentially leaving dependents unprotected.
The Financial Impact of Lack of Estate Planning
When people neglect estate planning, the consequences extend beyond just asset distribution. Without clear directives, surviving family members may struggle with legal complications, delayed access to financial accounts, and potential financial instability. Consider these potential pitfalls:
- Probate Costs and Delays: Probate is often a long and expensive legal process. Without a will, probate can take months or even years, with significant legal fees eating into the estate’s value.
- Family Disputes: Without clear documentation, families may face conflicts over inheritance, leading to costly legal battles and emotional distress.
- Unnecessary Taxes: Estate planning can help minimize tax burdens. Without proper planning, an estate may be subject to federal and state taxes that could have been mitigated.
- Business Uncertainty: If a small business owner passes away without a succession plan, their business may struggle to continue, affecting employees and customers.
How Credit Unions Can Bridge the Gap
As trusted financial institutions, credit unions are uniquely positioned to offer estate planning as part of a comprehensive financial wellness strategy. By integrating estate planning services into financial wellness programs, credit unions can:
- Provide a holistic financial strategy that includes legacy protection.
- Differentiate themselves from traditional banks and fintech competitors.
- Offer a valuable service that enhances member loyalty and engagement.
- Help members prepare for major life events such as marriage, homeownership, parenthood, and retirement.
- Strengthen their role as trusted financial advisors beyond traditional banking products.
Enhancing Member Relationships Through Estate Planning
Credit unions thrive on member trust and long-term relationships. By introducing estate planning as part of financial wellness services, they can offer a proactive solution that:
- Educates members on the importance of securing their financial legacy.
- Provides easy-to-use digital solutions that eliminate the intimidation of traditional estate planning.
- Ensures seamless financial transitions during major life events, offering stability and peace of mind.
Why Gentreo is the Right Partner
Gentreo is revolutionizing estate planning with a user-friendly, affordable, and secure platform designed for today’s digital world. Unlike costly traditional legal services, Gentreo allows members to create, update, and store essential estate planning documents quickly and affordably. Through its Digital Vault, members can securely store and share documents with trusted individuals, ensuring their wishes are carried out without confusion or delay.
The Benefits of Partnering with Gentreo:
- Affordability: Traditional estate planning services can be expensive. Gentreo offers an affordable alternative without compromising on quality.
- Accessibility: Digital solutions make estate planning easy for members to complete anytime, anywhere.
- Security: The Gentreo Digital Vault ensures that important documents are stored securely and accessible to designated individuals when needed.
- Ease of Use: A simple, guided process helps members complete their estate planning efficiently without requiring legal expertise.
- Customization: Gentreo’s tools allow for personalized estate plans tailored to individual needs.
By partnering with Gentreo, credit unions provide an indispensable service that meets the modern needs of their members while reinforcing long-term relationships.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Financial Wellness
As financial wellness continues to evolve, estate planning will play an increasingly critical role in securing members’ financial futures. Credit unions that integrate estate planning into their offerings will stand out as true financial wellness leaders. By partnering with Gentreo, credit unions not only meet the growing demand for digital estate planning but also reinforce their commitment to supporting members through every stage of life.
Final Thoughts
In 2025 and beyond, financial wellness means more than just saving and investing—it means protecting a financial legacy. Credit unions that embrace estate planning will not only strengthen their member relationships but also position themselves as industry leaders in holistic financial wellness. By partnering with Gentreo, they ensure their members have the tools to secure their futures with confidence and ease.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; start your estate planning journey with Gentreo today. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your loved ones but also gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your legacy is secure. Click HERE to join now.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or estate planning professional for personalized guidance.
