A Guide on the Types of Charitable Trusts

Charitable trusts are a powerful tool in estate planning. They offer you the chance to support causes close to your heart while securing your financial legacy.

In this article, we’ll explore the world of charitable trusts. We’ll break down the basics and different types of charitable trusts in beginner-friendly terms.

What Charitable Trusts Are & How They Work

Before diving in, let’s understand what they are and how they function. A charitable trust is a legal arrangement. This is where you set aside assets, such as money, property, or investments.

This is done to benefit a charitable organization or cause. This trust is managed by a trustee, who ensures that your wishes are carried out.

Here’s how it works: You, as the creator of the trust (often called the “grantor”), transfer your assets into the trust. The trust generates income, and a portion of that income goes to the charitable cause you’ve chosen. This allows you to support your favorite charities while potentially receiving certain financial benefits, such as tax deductions.

It’s essential to briefly mention a trust terms glossary linked here. Understanding the terminology related to trusts can be helpful when creating a trust, especially if you’re new to estate planning. Terms like “grantor,” “trustee,” and “beneficiary” are commonly used in documents.

Charitable Remainder Trusts

One of the most common types of charitable trusts is the Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT). This trust is a fantastic option if you have appreciated assets, like stocks or real estate.

This is good if you’re looking for ways to create a stream of income for yourself or your beneficiaries while supporting charity. Here’s how a CRT works. You establish the CRT and transfer your appreciated assets into it.

The CRT generates income, either for you or a beneficiary, for a specified period or for life. This income can be fixed (annuity trust) or variable (unitrust).

After the income period ends or upon the death of the beneficiary, the remaining assets in the trust go to the charitable organization you’ve chosen.

Benefits of a CRT

You can receive a charitable income tax deduction for the present value of the charity’s remainder interest. You or your beneficiaries receive income from the trust. Your chosen charity receives the remaining assets when the trust ends.

Charitable Lead Trusts

Charitable Lead Trusts (CLT) work in the opposite way of Charitable Remainder Trusts. In a CLT, the charitable organization receives income for a specific period. After that, the remaining assets are passed on to your chosen beneficiaries, often family members.

Here’s how a CLT works. Establish the CLT and transfer your assets into it. The charitable organization receives income from the trust for a set number of years or during your lifetime.

Once the income period ends, charitable donations and the remaining assets in the trust are given to your chosen beneficiaries.

Benefits of a CLT

Immediate assistance to your preferred charitable cause during the trust’s term. Potential estate tax benefits for your heirs. After the trust term, your beneficiaries receive the assets.

By using a Charitable Lead Trust, you can ensure ongoing support for your favorite charity while providing for your loved ones.

Exploring the Types of Charitable Trusts

In this article, we’ve explored the types of charitable trusts and other essentials. By creating a Charitable Remainder Trust or a Charitable Lead Trust, you can support your favorite charities while potentially receiving financial benefits.

With all these in mind, you can leave a lasting legacy through charitable donations and thoughtful estate planning.

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