Most people plan to give someday—whether it’s to their kids, a cause they care about, or their local community. But here’s a thought: what if you didn’t wait? Giving while you’re still here—still active, still involved—can lead to more meaningful moments and longer-lasting impact. Here’s why giving now often makes more sense than waiting until you’re gone.
1. The Earlier the Gift, the Bigger the ImpactA study by Penn Wharton back in 2021 showed that the peak inheritances were received when people were between 56 and 65 years old.
Money has the most value when it aligns with the stage of life it’s needed most. Giving your kids an inheritance in their 60s might help, but it’s unlikely to change the trajectory of their lives. At that point, they’ve already made most of their big decisions—career, family, home; already saved for their own retirement. But giving in their 30s or 40s? That’s when it can truly make a difference. It might help them pay off student loans, buy a home, take a career risk they otherwise couldn’t, or put it towards a enriching their own children’s lives.
The impact isn’t just financial—it’s personal, emotional, and practical.
2. You Get to See the Difference You’re Making
When you give now, you don’t just hope your gift helps—you actually see it in action. That could mean watching a nonprofit grow because of your support. Think of the impact in the organization you care of the most about that would be missed if you wait rather than give today? Or seeing your child stress less and sleep better because you helped lighten their financial load. Yes, the raw numbers may be bigger if you wait until you pass away, but just like you hear from LifeFirst again and again, it’s not just about a bigger number, but a bigger life.
You’re not just remembered for your generosity—you get to be part of it. That’s a joy you don’t get from waiting.
3. Give Memories, Not Just Money
Life is about experiences. And some of the best things you can give your family aren’t just financial—they’re memories. Maybe that means gifting a family vacation while everyone’s still healthy enough to enjoy it together. Or helping fund a meaningful experience your child or grandchild will never forget.
Waiting too long can mean missing the window to share those moments.
Now You’re Wondering, “Can I Even Afford to Give Today?”
Fair question. The goal isn’t to give recklessly. It’s to give purposefully. That means building giving into your plan from the beginning, not treating it like an afterthought or waiting until “everything else is covered.” When done right, giving doesn’t threaten your financial future. It strengthens your sense of purpose. It creates moments you get to be part of, not just leave behind. Money is a tool to live well, not just die wealthy. That doesn't mean spending recklessly. It means using your resources thoughtfully, while you're still here to enjoy and witness the results. That’s where real clarity starts. And that’s where the most meaningful kind of giving begins.
So instead of asking, “Can I afford to give now?” a better question might be:
“What would it look like if I did?"