Planned giving allows donors to make a real difference in Livingston
County. It provides incalculable benefits for generations to come, and
it can do this without negative impacts to donor's existing commitments
and financial well-being. Planned gifts can take various forms, some of
which have tax advantages with respect to estate and inheritance taxes,
income tax and capital gain tax. If you are considering a planned
gift, it is recommended that you contact your attorney or financial
advisor to determine which form is most beneficial.
Bequest by Will:
This type of gift may take the form of a specific bequest to the LCF of
a specified amount or asset, a residuary bequest (of all or part of an
estate), or a contingent bequest (of an estate with no surviving family
members).
Gift of Land: A gift of real estate is
often the penultimate gift a donor can make, and major donations have
been received by Livingston County in the form of land. Please see
Livingston County's land donation policy.
Stock Certificates:
Ownership of stock certificates may be donated to the LCF, with the
proceeds of their sale being dedicated to acquisition or development
projects.
Annuities: The LCF may be designated as the beneficiary or owner of an annuity that, when matured, may be dedicated to a project.
Retirement Plan Assets: A retirement plan such as an IRA, 401K, or a profit sharing plan may be gifted, thereby reducing income tax liability.
Life Insurance Policies:
If no longer needed, proceeds from a life insurance policy where the
LCF is designated as beneficiary may be dedicated toward a project.
Charitable Remainder Trust: This type of trust allows the donor to retain or increase his or her income, with the remainder interest paid to the LCF.
The
LCF will provide recognition for gifts received, as may be appropriate
depending on the scale and nature of the donation. The LCF will make
every effort to ensure that donor's wishes are adhered to. Of course,
the greatest benefit of donations comes from the appreciation of the many
visitors of
Livingston County's parks, today and for generations to
come.