Every one of us has been entrusted with gifts, both spiritual and financial. We steward these resources throughout our lives and we can use them for God's work long after we are gone. A legacy gift allows your faith, values, and generosity to continue shaping lives for future generations.
Legacy giving is an opportunity to align your financial plans with your deepest values. Many planned gifts can provide tax advantages, create income for you or your loved ones, and support the ministries you care about most.
The most common legacy gift is a bequest through a will or estate plan, but many options are available depending on your goals and circumstances.
Stewardship Beyond a Lifetime
Why Consider a Legacy Gift?
If you are age 70½ or older, you may be able to make tax-advantaged gifts directly from your IRA.
IRA Qualified Charitable Distributions
Recommend grants from your donor-advised fund to support the ministries and programs that matter most to you.
Donor-Advised Funds
A straightforward way to support the mission of St. John's and often the simplest charitable deduction.
Cash Gifts
You may designate a specific amount, percentage, or remainder of your estate to support the church's future ministry. Or, name St. John's as a beneficiary of retirement or investment accounts, or life insurance policies.
Your Will or Beneficiaries
FAQ
Simple Ways to Give
Support the church for a specified period before assets pass to family members, often with significant tax benefits.
Charitable Lead Trusts
Receive fixed payments for life while making a meaningful future gift to the church.
Charitable Gift Annuities
Provide income to you or your loved ones for a period of time, with the remaining assets supporting ministry.
Charitable Remainder Trusts
Combine your gift with others, receive lifetime income, and leave a lasting charitable impact.
Pooled Income Funds
FAQ
Gifts That Can Provide Income
more easy ways to give
There are many other easy ways to make a planned gift. These options can help you support the future ministry of St. John's while also providing potential tax and estate planning benefits.
Securities
Donating stocks, bonds, or mutual funds may reduce capital gains taxes while making a lasting impact through your gift.
Real Estate
A gift of property can support the ministry of St. John's while helping you achieve your estate planning goals.
Retirement Assets
Retirement accounts are often one of the most tax-efficient ways to make a charitable gift through your estate.
Life Insurance
A life insurance policy you no longer need can become a meaningful gift that supports future ministry.
Gifts of
Appreciated Assets
Unique ways to give
Other Valuable Assets
Collections, historic artifacts, boats, aircraft, and other unique assets may also be donated in support of the church's mission.
An endowed gift provides permanent support for ministry. The principal remains invested while earnings help fund the work of the church year after year, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
Creating a Lasting Impact
Endowed Gifts
We're Here to Help
Begin the Conversation
Because every family and estate is unique, we encourage you to speak with your attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional when considering a planned gift.
For more information about legacy giving opportunities, please contact the church office or the United Methodist Foundation. We would be honored to help you explore options that reflect your values and goals.