xIs there a charity or a cause that really speaks to your heart? Do you want to make a difference in the world even after you are gone? If so, you may be wondering how to put your charitable giving desires into effect with your estate plan. This article will give you ideas of how to accomplish charitable giving and where to start. For more information on estate planning.
Make an outright bequest.
- This is probably the easiest method for supporting causes you love through your estate plan.
- Typically, this method would involve identifying and exact amount to give to a specific charity and specifying that in your will.
Donations in lieu of flowers when you die.
- You can ask friends and family to leave a gift to a certain foundation in lieu of flowers when you die.
- This can be a good way to not only fund-raise for your favorite charity, but also to bring awareness and public support for the charity also.
Name beneficiaries for non-probate assets.
- Assets that do not go through probate include assets held in trust, life insurance policy payouts, and retirement accounts and pensions
- You can name the beneficiary on these accounts as the charity or charities that you want to support.
- As a note of caution on this one, though, your loved ones may want to inherit these types of assets because tax benefits may be involved.
Can I remain anonymous in my charitable giving?
- Prior to 2021, California had a law requiring nonprofits to file a list of their large donors with the state. The U.S. Supreme Court in a 2021 decision struck down California’s law, thus siding with donors who may have a desire to remain anonymous. Consult the Law Office of David Knecht
At the Law Office of David Knecht, we have extensive experience with estate planning and can help you accomplish charitable giving or a plan that accomplishes the purposes you have in mind. We will perform a one-on-one evaluation to help you create an estate plan that is customized for your needs. Call us at 707-451-4502.
