Individuals who include Sweetser with a planned gift help create a legacy of support for future generations. In doing so, you become a member of the Cornelius Sweetser Heritage Society. If you are considering including Sweetser in your will or trust, or have already established a planned gift to Sweetser, please let us know so we can recognize your generosity. Contact our Donor Engagement & Events Manager, Jodie Hansen, at 207.294.4476 or jhansen@sweetser.org.
Bequests
Leaving a bequest to Sweetser allows you to make a substantial contribution without diminishing the assets available to you during your life. Since bequests are deductible from your taxable estate, significant estate tax savings are possible. In addition, a bequest is simple to make and can be stated as a dollar amount, percentage of your estate, or a designation of specific property.
Charitable Remainder Trust
You can use an irrevocable trust to provide yourself and/or a loved one with a fixed annual income, or an income which varies with the value of the trust. Part of your gift qualifies for an income tax deduction, as calculated with IRS tables. Upon the death of the last income beneficiary, the remainder of the trust is distributed to charity.
Charitable Lead Trust
You can support Sweetser for a term of years or for the life of an individual by creating a charitable lead trust. Income will be paid to Sweetser and/or the charities of your choice each year during the term of the trust. When the trust terminates, the assets in the trust revert to you or to individuals you wish to benefit.
Life Insurance
When you donate a life insurance policy to Sweetser, the cash surrender value of the policy or the cost of a replacement policy, is deductible as a charitable contribution. If you continue to pay premiums after your gift, these premiums are also deductible.
Retirement Assets
Naming Sweetser as a beneficiary of your retirement plan is one of the most cost effective gifts you can make since all income and estate taxes are avoided. Retirement assets are typically one of the largest sources of wealth in a person’s portfolio, though often overlooked as a charitable giving opportunity.
Contact Us
For more information about planned giving, contact Jodie Hansen, Donor Engagement & Events Manager:
Email: jhansen@sweetser.org
Phone: 207.294.4476
Mail: 50 Moody Street, Saco, Maine 04072
Please consult your tax advisor or attorney for specific advice.