How do I leave a meaningful legacy beyond just passing on money?

A legacy is more than the dollar amount your heirs receive — it's the values, guidance, and intentions you pass along. Practically, you can structure inheritances through a trust to support goals like education or a first home, name charities as beneficiaries on accounts or in your will, set up a donor-advised fund, or use qualified charitable distributions from an IRA later in life. Beyond money, a letter of intent or ethical will can share your story, lessons, and hopes for your family. Decide whether you want to give while living — funding a grandchild's 529 or helping with a down payment — so you can see the impact. Coordinate it all so your charitable and family wishes don't conflict with beneficiary forms. Thinking through what you want to be remembered for makes the financial choices clearer. Explore wealthserene.com/goals/leave-a-legacy to map your intentions into a plan.