Fruitage Financial

Tax Planning

The Fruitage Way

When an individual, a family, or an institution makes charitable giving a priority - be it small or large – it truly is a time for rejoicing!  God has blessed you with His goodness, and now you're reflecting that same quality into your community and world. Many of the institutions of the arts, sciences, and religious nature are supported in large part by those who want to give something back in appreciation for their contributions to the community or the individuals themselves. 

Presently, the tax code offers incentives for gifting of one’s assets or incomes. Tax deductions are given for current contributions and, for estate owners, charitable gifts can reduce the size of the estate to help minimize estate taxes.

Often times, an individual will designate a charitable beneficiary in their will to benefit the organization after the individual dies.  By using charitable gifting techniques, a donor may be able to benefit the charity while living without having to sacrifice the income that an asset can generate. Understanding how properly structured charitable gifts can provide current benefits for both the donor and the charity could be important for the charitably inclined.

Charitable Remainder Trust

A remainder trust enables the donor to transfer an asset while retaining the right to the income it generates. The asset becomes the “remainder” which is owned by the charity. Remainder trusts, if properly structured, can qualify for a current tax deduction. There are three types of remainder trusts:

Also known as an Income Trust this vehicle transfers the income rights to the charitable organization. Generally, the income rights are assigned for a specified period of time after which the remainder passes to the donor. Charitable planning involves tax issues that should be discussed with a qualified tax or financial professional.

Charitable Lead Trust