RALEIGH, N.C. – In 2011, State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) debuted its Estate Planning Essentials Program to provide an affordable option for members needing basic estate planning services, such as a will and power of attorney.
Recognizing that most assume estate planning is only for the wealthy, SECU said its goal was to offer the service to members, regardless of economic status. In just over six years, the Estate Planning Essentials Program has helped nearly 34,000 members strengthen their financial picture with a high-quality estate plan.
“The program underscores the credit union’s commitment to providing comprehensive financial planning services, which complements its other financial advisory service offerings such as insurance, investments and tax preparation options,” SECU said.
SECU members have access to 450 licensed SECU Trust representatives statewide who, through MEMBERS Trust Company, discuss a Will with possible trust provisions, a Durable Power of Attorney (POA), a Health Care Power of Attorney (HCPOA) and Living Will, a HIPAA Authorization and other aspects of end-of-life planning. Members can then schedule an in-branch appointment with an experienced estate planning attorney to have their documents prepared at a cost of just $275 for individuals and $375 for a married couple with similar plans completed at the same time.
Jessica Evans, Senior Vice President of SECU’s Trust Services department, remarked, “SECU’s Estate Planning Essentials Program has grown tremendously, particularly since 2014, nearly doubling those served from 17,000 to almost 34,000. We are happy to see that more and more members are recognizing the need to plan ahead, ensuring their family’s needs are met as they intend in the event of their death. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of our staff throughout the state, the credit union is working continuously to help members prepare for a sound financial future.”