Estate planning can entail difficult choices, but once your plan is in place, it provides a sense of relief and peace of mind. You’ll know that you have done your best to plan and provide for yourself and for loved ones, as well as for the causes you’ve cared about during your lifetime.

It’s really never too early—or too late—to do retirement planning. With this in mind, Via Christi Foundation offers some basic points to consider.

A gift plan can provide you substantial tax benefits, especially when you give stock or real estate. Depending on your situation, you may save income taxes, capital gains taxes, probate expenses and estate taxes.