Planned gifts can take many forms, the most common is bequests in wills.  Planned gifts also include gifts made during a lifetime.  They can take the form of gifts of cash, or may consist of gifts of stock, or may consist of gifts of property, including life insurances, IRAs, securities, or real estate. There are many types of planned giving opportunities:

• Cash: A simple way to give, with tax-deductible benefits, cash provides immediate assistance to Catholic Charities.
• Donor-Advised Funds: The distribution of the charitable funds may be spread out over many years. You can provide direction each year as to which charity will receive annual distributions from the fund.
• Wills and Trusts: A bequest is a gift that is designated to Catholic Charities through a Will or a Trust. Upon your death, we receive a specific amount of money or property, a percentage of your estate, or the remainder of your estate after expenses.
• Investments and Property: Stocks, mutual funds, real estate, and other assets can be donated as a planned gift. The donor receives a charitable income tax deduction for the full market value of the investment on the transfer date.
• Life Insurance: You may own a life insurance policy that was purchased for a specific purpose that no longer exists. Donating a paid-up life insurance policy enables you to make a substantial charitable gift upon your death.