Trusts And Charities

For many of us, charitable giving is an important part of how we want to use our resources. Whether it is supporting a local cause, funding education, or contributing to healthcare initiatives, we want our giving to reflect our values. Trusts provide a structured way to carry out these wishes, both during our lifetime and after. By including charitable giving in a trust, we can create a lasting impact while also addressing financial and family goals.

Choosing The Right Type Of Trust

There are different types of trusts that can be used for charitable purposes. A charitable remainder trust allows us to provide income to ourselves or family members for a period of time, with the remainder going to charity. A charitable lead trust does the opposite by giving income to a charity for a set period, and then the remaining assets pass to family. Private foundations or donor-advised funds can also be included in trust planning. Deciding which type is best depends on what we want to accomplish and how we want the funds to be distributed.

Balancing Family And Charitable Goals

One of the advantages of using a trust for charitable giving is the ability to balance personal and family needs with charitable priorities. For example, we may want to provide for a spouse or children first but also dedicate a portion of assets to a charity that reflects our values. Trusts allow us to do both in a clear and organized way. This helps us maintain family security while also making a difference in the community.

Tax Benefits Of Charitable Trusts

Charitable trusts may also offer tax benefits. Depending on how the trust is structured, there may be deductions available during our lifetime, and certain strategies can reduce estate or gift taxes. While the primary motivation for giving is often the desire to help others, these tax advantages can be an added benefit that allows us to do more with the resources we have.

Long-Term Impact Of Charitable Giving Through Trusts

Using a trust for charitable giving allows us to make an impact beyond our lifetime. By setting clear terms, we can direct how funds are used for years to come. This can mean scholarships for students, ongoing support for healthcare programs, or steady funding for local organizations. A trust gives us confidence that the causes we care about will continue to benefit from our support in the future.

Working With Legal Guidance

Creating a charitable trust involves important decisions about structure, timing, and beneficiaries. Because of the legal and financial considerations, it helps to work with an attorney who has experience in trust planning. A Sammamish, WA trust lawyer can provide guidance on how to set up a charitable trust that meets both family and philanthropic goals.

At Eastside Estate Planning, we help clients design trusts that reflect their values and protect their families. If you are considering incorporating charitable giving into your estate plan, contact us so we can discuss the best approach for your goals and create a plan that makes a lasting impact.