Based on responses to the questions below, the Lutheran Community Foundation can help you create a charitable giving plan that matches your client’s giving needs and interests. You can also try the Giving Options Tool on the LCF website. For more information, contact the LCF at 800-365-4172 or email us.
Starting the Conversation
- Have you considered giving to charity – either while living or upon death?
- If no, Would you consider leaving dollars to charity if it would not hurt you or your family financially? What if it could help you or your family financially?
- If yes, Are you satisfied with what you give – would you like to give more?
- Would you like to continue giving to charity after your death?
- Would you be in interested in creating a giving plan that has lasting impact? (Either during your life or after death?)
Exploring Ways to Give
- What types of charitable giving are currently part of your giving program?
- Are any charities named in your will?
- Do you have any life insurance, annuities or IRAs that could be given to charity as beneficiary proceeds – all or a portion?
- Do you have any appreciated assets (securities or real estate) that you resist selling because of capital gains taxes?
- Do you have assets set aside that you would like to give in exchange for ongoing income payments?
- Would you be interested in making a future substantial gift to charity through smaller, annual gifts that are tax deductible?
- How do you want your estate to be shared among family, church/charities and the government? Is there a set amount or upper limit that you want to leave your family?
Determining Charitable Interests
- Do you actively volunteer with any organizations?
- What organizations/institutions have provided the greatest influences in your life? (e.g. church, school/college, community, charities)
- Do you have any favorite charities? What about them appeals to you the most?
- Would your financial support to any organization/charity be missed if is ceased?
- What entities would you be most interested in helping? Are there societal issues that you wish to address?
Fine-tuning the Donor’s Charitable Plan
- Do you want a giving plan that provides for charity during your lifetime and/or at your death?
- Do you want the charity(ies) to receive a lump sum upon your death or do you want to provide ongoing support?
- Do you want to give anonymously or by name? In memory or in honor of someone?
- Do you want to support multiple charities?
- Do you want to give to a certain program or target a specific geographic area?
- Do you want the flexibility to select different charities over time?
- Do you want to involve your family in your charitable giving plans?
