Like you, Brandeis University is feeling the effects of inflation and navigating volatility in the markets. We are grateful for the steadfast and generous support of our donors as we adapt and continue to serve our community of students in times of need.

If anxiety about financial security makes you reluctant to think about a charitable contribution now, there are charitable gift plans that can allow you to help Brandeis and preserve flexibility for you in case your circumstances change. 

Current Gifts to Make a Difference Now

You can have the most immediate impact with a current gift. Your tax savings can significantly increase if you contribute appreciated securities like stocks or mutual funds that are now worth more than you paid for them. Giving appreciated securities avoids the capital gains tax that you would owe if you sold them, and you can take an income tax deduction for the full current value of your investment.

If you are 70½ or older, you can further minimize taxes with a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your IRA account. QCDs are excluded from your reported income while still counting towards your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).

Preserving Flexibility with a Legacy Gift

A gift from your estate can provide future support for Brandeis while preserving flexibility in case your circumstances change. You can even direct that your gift is to be made only if the needs of your heirs have been met first.

You can contribute your bank or other financial accounts with a beneficiary designation. This gift is simple — just ask your financial institution to specify Brandeis to receive some or all of your account after you are gone.

A legacy gift from your retirement account is a very tax-efficient way of giving because it avoids the income tax that your estate or the heirs would have paid on funds left in your retirement account.

Gifts That Provide Income

A life income gift can provide lifetime payments to you or others in exchange for your contribution. The amount of income can be fixed or variable and can last for one or more lifetimes. You will receive an income tax deduction for the value of the contribution and defer capital gains tax if you contribute appreciated property. The charitable gift annuity is seeing renewed interest due to a recent increase in payout rates – Brandeis can now offer you an even more generous annual payment.