Charitable remainder and lead trusts are two of the more customary trusts benefiting charities. These trusts can provide current income, diversification from concentrated stock holdings, and tax savings. They can benefit both the donor (or his family) and the charity—a good outcome.

Charitable distributions from retirement plans such as IRAs, 401(k)s, profit sharing plans, Keogh plans, and 403(b)s are also used, and have special tax ramifications associated with them, making them an excellent choice in many cases. Helpfully, the IRA charitable rollover has recently been made permanent for those over 70-1/2 years old.

Various entities, like private family foundations and donor advised funds are interesting tools to aid family members in supporting favorite charities. These entities allow long-term family control of charitable funds, including their distributions, point heirs toward specific causes, and can educate children on the burdens of wealth, and regulatory and optimal grant making processes.

Cash is an easy way to donate to First Liberty, an IRS recognized 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

However, there may be more tax efficient ways to contribute certain types of assets. A disciplined program of methodical giving can lower eventual estate tax burdens and can provide current tax deductions.

Gifts of appreciated stocks, bonds, and other marketable securities are easily transferred, and if there is a low cost basis involved, significant capital gains tax savings can also be achieved. Please call us at (972) 941-4448 for securities transfer instructions.