Zielonka Financial Services LLC

(888) 967-1040

Estate Read Time: 3 min

Trends in Charitable Giving

According to the most recent report by Giving USA, Americans gave a record breaking $471 billion to charity in 2020.1

Americans usually give to charity for two main reasons: to support a cause or organization they care about, or to leave a legacy through their support.

When giving to charitable organizations, some people elect to support through cash donations. Others, however, understand that supporting an organization may generate tax benefits. They may opt to follow techniques that can maximize both the gift and the potential tax benefit. Here’s a quick review of a few charitable choices:

Direct gifts are just that: contributions made directly to charitable organizations. Direct gifts may be deductible from income taxes, depending on your individual situation.

Charitable gift annuities are not related to annuities offered by insurance companies. Under this arrangement, the donor gives money, securities, or real estate, and in return, the charitable organization agrees to pay the donor a fixed income. Upon the death of the donor, the assets pass to the charitable organization. Charitable gift annuities enable donors to receive consistent income and potentially manage their taxes.

Pooled-income funds pool contributions from various donors into a fund, which is invested by the charitable organization. Income from the fund is distributed to the donors, according to their share of the fund. Pooled-income funds can enable donors to receive income, manage their tax burden, and make a future gift to charity.

Please consider the charges, risks, expenses, and investment objectives carefully before investing. A prospectus containing this and other information about the pooled-income fund can be obtained from your financial professional. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Gifts in trust enable donors to contribute to a charity and leave assets to beneficiaries. Generally, these irrevocable trusts take one of two forms. With a charitable remainder trust, the donor or chosen beneficiaries can receive lifetime income from the assets in the trust, which is then passed to the charity when the donor dies; in the case of a charitable lead trust, the charity receives the income from the assets in the trust, which passes to the donor’s beneficiaries when the donor dies.

Using a trust involves a complex set of tax rules and regulations. Before moving forward with a trust, consider working with a professional who is familiar with these rules and regulations.

Donor-advised funds are funds administered by a charity that a donor can make irrevocable contributions to. This gift may have tax considerations, which is another benefit. The donor also can recommend that the fund make distributions to qualified charitable organizations.

Please consider the charges, risks, expenses, and investment objectives carefully before investing. A prospectus containing this and other information about the donor-advised fund can be obtained from your financial professional. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Some people are comfortable with their current gifting strategies. Others may want a more advanced strategy, however, which can maximize their gift and generate potential tax benefits. A financial professional can help you assess which approach may work best for you.

Remember, the information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice. And it may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

1. WashingtonPost.com, June 15, 2021

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Share |
 

Related Content

Inventorying Your Possessions

Inventorying Your Possessions

Creating an inventory of your possessions can save you time, money and aggravation in the event you someday suffer losses.

Social Security Taxes

Social Security Taxes

Estimate how much of your Social Security benefit may be considered taxable.

Find That Lost Retirement Account

Find That Lost Retirement Account

With over 24 million “forgotten” 401(k) accounts, you may be surprised to learn of your unclaimed “found” money.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Rebalancing Your Portfolio

Over time, different investments' performances can shift a portfolio’s intent and risk profile. Rebalancing may be critical.

Protecting Your Business from the Loss of a Key Person

Business owners may be able to protect themselves from the financial consequences of losing a key employee.

Making a Charitable Contribution

There are benefits and limitations when you decide to donate stock.

View all articles

What Is My Current Net Worth?

Use this calculator to estimate your net worth by adding up your assets and subtracting your liabilities.

Comparing Investments

This calculator compares the net gain of a taxable investment versus a tax-favored one.

Estimate Your RMD

Help determine the required minimum distribution from an IRA or other qualified retirement plan.

View all calculators

Protecting Those Who Matter Most

The importance of life insurance, how it works, and how much coverage you need.

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

View all presentations

Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now

Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.

Exit Strategies of the Rich and Famous

Estate conservation is too important to put off. Do you have a smart exit strategy?

Questions to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Doing your research is key before buying a vacation home.

View all videos