WILLS: A simple way to distribute valuable assets is to establish a will. Charitable gifts can be donated to the ministry of your choice in a will by designating a specific amount, a specific gift, or all or a portion of your estate. In addition, some gifts may provide an estate tax savings to you or your heirs.
REVOCABLE LIVING TRUSTS: One of the most flexible giving plans available today is the revocable living trust. This charitable gifting plan enables the donor to retain the rights to any gifts that are given to the trust while the donor is still living. At death, the assets in the trust are distributed according to the donor’s wishes as outlined in the trust agreement.
ANNUITY TRUSTS: Charitable Remainder Unitrusts and Charitable Remainder Annuity Trusts are irrevocable gifting plans that feature income payments to a donor based on the value of the property donated. The annuity trust pays a fixed income based on the value of the assets given at the trusts initial creation, and the unitrust provides an income that fluctuates annually based on the trusts current value.
CHARITABLE LEAD TRUSTS: This gifting plan empowers a donor to give a gift to a charity for a period of time (typically 5, 10, 15, or 20 years). Through the use of this plan, it can be possible to transfer assets to the donor’s heirs without paying gift or estate taxes. 5. GIFT ANNUITIES: This gifting plan enables a donor to make a gift to their charitable interest and receive fixed annual income payments for the remainder of their lives. Life income payments are based on the recipient’s age when the gift is completed.
RETIREMENT PLANS: It is possible to give a gift to a designated charitable cause through the use of your company retirement plan or an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or both. Generally, assets that are not used by your heirs are given to a charitable cause you designate.
LIFE INSURANCE: One of the easiest and most cost effective ways to leave a gift to a charitable cause or ministry is through a life insurance policy. All one needs to do is designate the charity as the beneficiary of the policy.
MEMORIAL/HONORARY GIFTS: A gift of lasting significance is that of the memorial or honorary gift. These gifts have immediate tax advantages and are designed to honor or memorialize someone who has had a positive influence in your life or in the life of a member of your family.
