The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation

Estate Planning Information


Estate planning encompasses the growth, conservation, and transfer of an individual’s wealth through the creation and maintenance of an “estate plan.”  The purpose of estate planning is to develop a strategy that will maintain the financial security of individuals through their lifetime and facilitate the intended transfer of their property and assets at death, while taking into consideration the unique circumstances of the family and the potential costs of different methods.

All too often, we hear:

  • "I'm too young to do estate planning."
  • "All my property is titled in joint tenancy with my spouse so I don't need a will."
  • "Estate planning is only for the super-rich."
  • "Estate planning is too complicated and expensive."
  • "Doesn't the government provide for that?"
  • "We did our wills right after we got married 30 years ago and see no need for further planning."

If you seek advice and guidance with regard to your estate planning needs, please view our website and search for a the type of member that meets your needs.  As an alternative, you can search for an Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) or Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) designation holder in your area on the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils website.

Featured Articles

YMCA of the Black Hills encourages estate planning during Make-A-Will month

Download the KOTA News App. By Mary Francis Witte. Published: Aug. 17, 2026 at 7:00 PM ...

FHLBank Atlanta and Georgia State Law Launch Heirs' Property Law Clinic

... estate planning and title concerns. Our clinic will develop expert practitioners, shape best practices, and build sustainable resources to support ...

National Make-a-Will Month: Why business owners need one and how to get started

Action News Jax 24/7 News · Weather 24/7 Stream · Social ... At the end of the day, proactive estate and succession planning is about peace of mind.

Celebrity Estates: The Murdoch Family Trust and Irrevocable Planning - Wealth Management

Mark Parthemer discusses how estate plans can become outdated and what advisors should consider when modifying irrevocable trusts.

Nick Reiner Frustrated By Lack of Access to $1.5 Million Trust as Star Lawyer Sits on Sidelines

Experts in estate planning have watched with interest as the Reiner ... THR Newsletters. Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day.