When most people think about leaving a legacy to heirs and charities, they picture their will deciding who gets what someday. But in reality, for most assets—like retirement accounts, life insurance policies and bank accounts—the first and more powerful document is the beneficiary form. 

That simple form takes precedence over your will entirely and determines who receives your IRA, 401(k) or life insurance proceeds directly—before your will, probate or legal delays. Naming Minnesota Trout Unlimited as a partial or full beneficiary is an easy, effective way to honor and celebrate your enjoyment of the outdoors and to help deliver this coldwater conservation mission long into the future. 

Unlike revising a will, updating a beneficiary form is free and takes only a few minutes—usually quickly online through your financial or insurance provider, such as Vanguard, Fidelity or Schwab. You can adjust your beneficiaries anytime to reflect life changes or to include the charitable organizations that reflect your values.

You may designate a specific dollar amount or a percentage of each account’s balance. 

Most online forms ask for the following: 

Minnesota Trout Unlimited

P.O. Box 845, Chanhassen, MN 55317‑0845 

EIN: 52‑1766036 

For any questions, to discuss how to create a permanent, named endowment or to let MNTU know your intentions, please contact MNTU giving coordinator, Mark Abner at 202-573-1832 or mark.abner@mntu.org.  Your confidentiality is assured.