Frequently Asked Questions
Who can help me arrange for a gift?
If you have a professional you?re working with like a financial planner, lawyer, accountant or insurance agent, please talk with them about leaving a gift. A professional can tell you about the tax benefits of planned gifts. You can also call the development department of a charitable organization for help.
How do I leave a gift in memory
of a person or for a specified purpose?
A gift is a wonderful way to recognize someone who has made a difference in your life. You may also want to give to a specific cause like research or to a new building. This kind of memorial gift can be arranged in your will, the same way that you would leave a personal gift from your estate. You just need to make it clear that the gift is given in memory of a particular person or for a specific use.
Do I tell the charity I've left the gift?
This is up to you. Charities often like to know in advance so they can recognize your generosity. They can also tell you about specific opportunities for giving. Whether you let the organization know of your plans or not, is your decision to make.
Take the first step.
Think about to whom and why you?d like to leave a gift. Maybe you or someone you know has been helped by a particular organization. Maybe you?re an active volunteer or believer in the mission. You might want to leave a gift in memory of a loved one or for a specific use.
If you need more help or you need to know more about a particular organization, do some investigating before leaving a gift. Call the nonprofit group of your choice. They can help you better understand what they do and what opportunities are available for giving.
Contact your professional advisor for help. Your advisor can make sure you are getting the maximum tax and legal advantages allowed for your gift.
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