August is National Make-a-Will Month—a perfect time to help your supporters protect what matters most and plan for the future. But as recent studies show, more Americans are putting off this important step, even as the need grows clearer than ever.
According to the Trust and Will 2025 Estate Planning Report, just 31% of Americans have a will—even though 83% say they recognize its importance. So what’s holding people back?
The report points to a few common concerns. The good news? Your nonprofit is in a unique position to address them.
3 Common Barriers to Creating a Will—and How You Can Help
1. “I don’t have enough assets to need a will.”
Many people think estate planning is only for the wealthy. In fact, 31% of Americans say they haven’t made a will because they don’t believe they have enough to leave behind.
How to help: Reframe the conversation. A will isn’t just about money—it’s about making sure your wishes are honored, from guardianship of children to cherished possessions, pets and charitable gifts. Without a will, the state decides what happens. With a will, they decide.
2. “I don’t know where to start.”
27% of Americans say lack of knowledge is their biggest barrier.
How to help: That’s where you come in. Use this month to demystify the process. Host a short webinar, create a how-to guide or share a simple checklist or video that walks donors through the steps. When people know what to expect, the process feels a lot more doable.
3. “It’s too expensive.”
Estate planning has a reputation for being costly. One in four people cite expense as the reason they haven’t made a will.
How to help: While legal assistance is helpful in complex situations, there are reliable low- and no-cost options available. Consider offering access to an online will tool like Giving Docs that allows users to create a will for free. When you remove the cost barrier, you open the door to peace of mind.
Making a Will Is an Act of Generosity
As you reach out to donors this month, remind them: creating a will is an act of love. It’s how they care for their family, protect their legacy, and ensure the causes they believe in—like yours—remain supported long into the future.
This is your moment to be a helpful, reassuring presence. Make-A-Will Month is more than a campaign—it’s a chance to build trust and create deeper connections.
Pro Tip: Looking to extend the conversation? Connect your messaging to these dates:
• August 14: National Financial Awareness Day
• August 17: National Nonprofit Day
• August 19: World Humanitarian Day
PS: If August is already packed, don’t worry—you’ll have another great opportunity to connect with your donors about their will during Estate Planning Awareness Week, coming up October 20–26. Now’s the perfect time to start planning.
Coming Next Week
Don’t miss our upcoming blog where Lynn Gaumer, JD, CAP® breaks down more insights from the 2025 Estate Planning Report—including what’s motivating people to act, and which demographics are stepping up (or sitting out).