How to Give Without Creating Dependency: A Legacy of Empowerment

An Insightful Q&A with Vance Wealth Partner, Jerrod Ferguson

When it comes to creating a legacy, many families ask how they can support their loved ones without unintentionally enabling unhealthy financial habits. It’s a thoughtful question and one we help clients navigate with care. Here, Jerrod shares a simple strategy for giving during your lifetime while also passing down your values and intentions.

What’s one of the biggest challenges people face when gifting money to loved ones?

The concern is often that a large financial gift might reduce motivation or create dependence. There’s always that fear of, “Are we doing too much?” And that’s a fair question. If someone hasn’t yet built strong financial habits, it’s easy to misinterpret a gift or use it in ways that don’t align with the giver’s values.

What’s a strategy that helps clients give without sending the wrong message?

We encourage families to include a short letter that explains the “why” behind the gift. It doesn’t have to be formal just heartfelt and intentional.

You might say:

“This gift is meant to support your long-term investments or education. We bought young, early, and often, and it helped us build a solid foundation. We hope this helps you do the same.”

Or even simply:

“We trust you’ll make responsible decisions with this.”

It gives the giver space to express expectations, while allowing the recipient to feel trusted and empowered.

How else can giving during your lifetime make a difference?

One of the most meaningful parts of giving is getting to witness the impact. When done thoughtfully, it creates an opportunity for growth and responsibility and often gratitude. At Vance Wealth, we also support this process by providing sample letters, framing family conversations, and helping minimize tax impact. The end goal is to give generously while preserving both values and relationships.

💬 Ready to Start a Legacy Conversation?

Whether you’re just beginning to think about gifting or already making plans, we’re here to help. Reach out today to connect with a Wealth Advisor and start building a legacy that empowers the next generation—with clarity, confidence, and care.

📞 Schedule a complimentary conversation at VanceWealth.com or speak with your Advisor directly.

📘 Disclosures

Vance Wealth, LLC (“Vance Wealth”) is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Vance Wealth and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized financial advice.