Planned Giving, also known as Legacy Giving, is a powerful way to support the causes you care about while maximizing your impact and achieving your financial goals. It involves making a charitable contribution through your estate plan, such as through your will, trust, or life insurance policy.
From a Christian perspective, Planned Giving is an act of stewardship, reflecting the biblical principle of using God-given resources to serve others. It aligns with the call to love our neighbors and to use our wealth wisely and compassionately.
Matthew 6:19-21: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up your treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Planned Giving allows Christians to fulfill their God-given responsibility to use their resources to make a positive impact on the world and to leave a lasting legacy of faith and compassion.
Galatians 6:10: "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
Making a Will allows you, as a Godly steward, to make decisions for the benefit of your family and to follow the Lord's leading with all He has entrusted to you. A Will can leave a lasting legacy for those you love and want to inspire. It might be easier than you think.
Many seniors make a substantial gift to Partners in Christ that provides them a generous fixed annuity for life. A Charitable Gift Annuity also comes with helpful tax benefits.
Giving appreciated stock to Partners in Christ instead of cash can produce superior tax benefits. This gift enables many folks to give more than they otherwise could have by reducing their ordinary income taxes and avoiding capital gains taxes.
Designating Partners in Christ as a beneficiary on any retirement account avoids taxes. During your lifetime, donors 70 1/2 or older can make gifts directly from their Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to Partners in Christ.
Tax Advantages:
Estate Tax Reduction: Charitable gifts can significantly reduce your estate tax liability, potentially saving your heirs substantial sums of money.
Income Tax Deductions: Depending on the type of planned gift, you may be eligible for income tax deductions during your lifetime.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your legacy will support causes you believe in provides a profound sense of fulfillment and peace of mind.
Charitable Impact: Your gift can make a lasting and meaningful impact on the world, addressing critical issues like poverty, healthcare, education, and environmental conservation.
Flexibility and Control: You maintain control over how and when your gift is distributed, ensuring your charitable intentions are fully realized.
Steps to Take in Creating Planned Gifts:
Consult with your financial advisor and estate planning attorney: Discuss your charitable goals, financial situation, and estate planning needs.
Determine the type of planned gift: Choose the most suitable option for your circumstances, such as a bequest in your will or charitable trust.
Update your estate plan: Ensure your will and other estate planning documents accurately reflect your charitable intentions.
Review and update your plan regularly: Life circumstances change, so it's important to review and update your estate plan periodically to ensure it continues to meet your goals.
By incorporating Planned Giving into your estate plan, you can make a significant and lasting impact on the work God is calling us to do in the Dominican Republic while achieving your own financial and philanthropic goals.
Print out our Planned Giving Guide, featuring the many ways you can Leave a Legacy with Partners in Christ and share it with your financial advisor.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult qualified professionals for personalized guidance on your specific situation.