Death tax, inheritance tax, estate tax . . . no matter what you call them, a well thought out planned gift can help you leave more money to your family even though a charitable donation is part of the plan.
WHAT IS THE LEGACY LEAGUE ?
Recently a Life Member passed away leaving a very special bequest to Wildlife Forever. We had no idea this special gift had been planned and, of course, it was too late to thank the donor. The Legacy League is our way of saying thank you in advance and recognizing those who have made a similar bequest or have set up other planned gifts to benefit Wildlife Forever.
Wildlife Forever Legacy League Members are passionate supporters of fish and wildlife that have included Wildlife Forever in their wills or other planned gifts. Their bequests provide a living memorial and tribute to both their generosity and their concern for America's fish and wildlife.
In addition to the tax benefits of their planned gifts and the special satisfaction that these types of gifts bring, Legacy League members receive special recognition. A special limited edition Legacy League pin has been designed to recognize individual members who plan ahead to benefit future fish and wildlife resources. Additionally, Legacy League members will receive a special membership certificate and recognition on Wildlife Forever's web site and in The Cry of the Wild, quarterly newsletter.
Life Members who are also Legacy League Members can request matching numbers.
VIEW THE LIST OF LEGACY LEAGUE MEMBERS
THE ADVANTAGES OF PLANNED GIFTS ARE FOR EVERYONE
Many folks are under the misunderstanding that bequests and planned gifts are only for those who are financially well off. In fact, there are tax benefits for people of every means that can have a positive impact in the here and now as well as in the future. Even if you don't itemize deductions, there can be a planned giving option that can benefit you.
Death tax, inheritance tax, estate tax . . . no matter what you call them, a well thought out planned gift can help you transfer more money to your family even though a charitable donation is part of the plan.
You can even direct where and how your gift will be used. Most people simply indicate their gift be used "as needed", but your gift can be used for many different programs such as children's outdoor education, wetlands protection or habitat work. You may prefer to have your gift added to the Forever Fund, an endowment in which only the interest is spent. Thus your gift will continue supporting fish and wildlife "forever".
The brochures presented below will provide a basic understanding of wills and planned gifts to help you to determine if the benefits of this type of donation are a good fit for you and your family. All are PDF files and easy to download or print right from your computer. Wildlife Forever also has available a planned giving expert that can consult with you. As always, you should also talk with your family lawyer or financial advisor.
EMAIL WILDLIFE FOREVER WITH A QUESTION
Or call Jim Gallagher at (763) 253-0222
For an easy to read discussion on what planned giving is and the general benefits of each type of gift, go to this guide of Planned Giving Basics .
The Wildlife Forever interactive planned giving web pages include additional information and even a special calculator you can use to see the results of your "what if" questions. You can also sign up for our weekly planned giving e-newsletter (Your email address will remain confidential).
| WILLS AND PLANNED GIFT INFORMATION |
In the absence of a will, the government will make all the decisions. Learn the four primary issues that should be addressed in a will.
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Provides a summary of the various types of planned gifts.
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Gifts of appreciated stock and other property can provide significant financial benefits. You avoid capital gains taxes plus you get a charitable deduction for the full value.
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A 21 page workbook/guide to help you assemble and organize the information needed to create a will or other planned gift. |
Scheduled to expire at the end of 2007, a gift of an IRA rollover is for those over age 70 who use the standard deduction or want to save on high social security income taxes. Explanations and examples. |
Charitable Remainder Trusts of these kinds allow you to avoid capital gains taxes on appreciated property and increase retirement income. Explanations and examples. |
Discover the four reasons Americans avoid preparing a will and why a Last Will and Testament is a good idea for everyone. |
Learn how a charitable gift of a low yielding investment can mean more money for you and your family. Explanation and example. |
Through a combination of Charitable Remainder and Life-Income Trusts, you can sell the farm, stay in your home and generate a sizable retirement income.
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Presents the types of bequests and provides examples of the tax benefits for maximizing your assets for your heirs. |
An annuity is an agreement for you to receive regular income payments for life and a charitable deduction in exchange for your planned gift. Explanations and examples of how they work.
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Gifts made through your IRA now or as part of your estate plan have several financial advantages. Discover if this tax strategy can benefit you and your family. |
