CHARITABLE BEQUEST

In 2016, charitable giving amounts reached record levels – $390.05 billion to be exact. This increase and the overall size of charitable contributions is testament to the integral role charities play in our lives. Thus, for people who have given to charities and organizations throughout their lives many wish for its continuance after their death.

Can I give assets to a charity or organization after I die?

An estate attorney can draft a charitable bequest provision for individuals who wish to bequest certain assets to an organization or charity. A charitable bequest is a written statement in a person’s will that directs a gift to be made to a charity upon the death of the testator, the maker of the will. However, there are other options available and it is therefore important to speak with an attorney to best fulfill your wishes.

What can I bequest to a charity?

There are many things you can give. A set money amount or real property, such as a home or land are two options. Additionally, an individual may bequest tangible personal property such as: a jet, car, artwork, antiques, or collectables. It is important to consider what the charity or organization can use best; some would greatly appreciate a parcel of land, while others would be better served with receiving money.

How do I bequest these assets?

There are different formats a testator may choose from.

The most common is called a general bequest. This allocates a set amount of money paid to a particular beneficiary. It is charged against the estate at death and must be satisfied.

The next is called a special bequest. This allocates a particular property or dollar amount to be awarded to a beneficiary. However, if you are considering to bequest a property you MUST own that specific property at your death – no other property will satisfy. A special bequest is also the first type of bequest satisfied upon an estate distribution.

A residuary bequest is a third form. This allows the beneficiary to receive assets that remain in the estate after all other bequests, as well as any tax or administrative costs, have been satisfied.

The final form is a percentage bequest, where a set percentage of the estate’s value is given to a beneficiary. This allows the charity or organization to benefit from the estate’s growth during the donor’s lifetime.

If you are considering ­­­­­­bequesting to a charity and would like more information, please contact the experienced family law attorneys at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri.

Lastly, please remember that each individual situation is unique, and results discussed in this post are not a guarantee of future results.  While this post may detail general legal issues, it is not legal advice.  Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.