We rely on charitable organizations – and they rely on us.
We rely on them to cure diseases, feed the hungry, teach our children, present the arts, preserve our history, train our doctors and shelter the homeless.
They rely on us for survival. While many charities receive some support from government agencies, the majority of their funding comes from the public–people like you who give generously throughout their lives.
But did you know that by including a charitable gift in your will or estate plan, you can help to continue your favorite organization’s work well into the future? You can continue to make a difference in the lives that follow.
What you should know.
You can make a legacy gift to charity. Whether you think of yourself as rich or poor, or somewhere in between, your gift can make a difference. Even a small amount can have a big impact over time.
Some people think they must choose between leaving a gift to their family or their favorite charity. You can do both, and some charitable gifts may actually save your family money by decreasing inheritance taxes.
It’s easy. A simple directive in your will can bring welcome support to an organization that will make a difference in many lives.
You can start today.
- Make sure you have an up-to-date will (or living trust) that reflects your charitable objectives. Without these documents, you surrender control of your property and assets to the courts.
- Contact your financial advisor (a financial planner, lawyer or accountant) and ask for help in establishing a charitable gift.
- Think beyond cash–you can leave stocks, real estate, insurance policies and personal property to charitable organizations.
- Make your favorite charity a beneficiary of your life insurance, pension plan or IRA.
