How You Can Leave a Lasting Legacy
Planned Gifts
A planned gift is described as any gift of cash, stock, or personal property to a non-profit that requires the services of a professional such as an attorney, estate planner, CPA, financial planner, or insurance broker. A planned gift can be an important part of an estate plan, providing an excellent method of reducing taxes while benefiting your favorite charities. The planned giving program at Mercy Foundation North was established to allow donors to make larger gifts than otherwise possible without undue financial sacrifice, while enjoying the financial benefits of such a gift, along with gift recognition and the knowledge that your contribution has made a difference.
Wills, Bequests, and Trusts
The simplest form of planned giving is a bequest. You may leave cash, securities, real estate, or other assets to Mercy Foundation North in your will. Making a bequest is as simple as including the gift in your will or adding a codicil (amendment) to your existing will. The value of such a legacy is deductible from the estate of the donor. It is also possible to establish a Charitable Remainder Trust by means of a will and provide income to the beneficiary of your choice.
Deferred Giving
If you wish to make a significant gift, but are concerned about losing income from assets you would use to fund the gift, you may want to consider a deferred gift. Deferred Gifts may be made in trust to Mercy Foundation North while the donated asset is retained by the donor or other beneficiary for life. Deferred gifts can be an important part of an estate plan, providing an excellent method for reducing income, estate, and gift taxes. When appreciated property is involved, capital gains tax may be avoided.
Donors who are considering making a planned gift are encouraged to contact the Foundation office with their intent early in the process to help ensure we are prepared to accept the gift and that your wishes can be honored. Our Planned Giving Specialist can provide information to your estate professional.
Mercy Foundation North encourages donors to consult their attorneys and other advisors concerning the details of their planned gifts. Our Planned Giving Specialist is available to provide guidance to your financial professional for your estate planning.
Planned Giving Professionals can now access information on specific planned giving options for clients:
The Advanced Planner - Winter 2008-2009 (.pdf)
The Advanced Planner - Spring 2009 (.pdf)
The Advanced Planner - Fall 2009 (.pdf)
For additional information, please contact our office at 530.247.3424 or email your questions to
MercyFoundationNorthContactUs@chw.edu.
