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Planned Giving: Empowering Your Legacy with Compassionate Estate Planning 

Have you ever wondered how planned giving can help you create a lasting impact on the causes you care about, even after you’re gone?

Recently, a client shared that she had funds she wanted to “do something with” but wasn’t quite sure how to make the best use of them.  She desired to make an impact, and that’s where planned giving came into the conversation. In this article, we will explain what planned giving is and discuss 2 reasons why you should consider incorporating it into your estate plan.

What is Planned Giving?

Planned giving involves making a significant charitable donation as part of your overall financial or estate planning. Unlike immediate donations, planned gifts are arranged during your lifetime but are allocated at a future date, often after your passing. This approach allows you to support the charities and causes that matter to you while also benefiting from various financial advantages.

So, why should you consider planned giving? Here are two key reasons that might help clarify its benefits:

     1. Leaving a Legacy

Planned giving enables you to leave a legacy that truly reflects your values and passions. This form of giving allows you to make a significant impact on the causes you care about, ensuring that your support endures even after you’re gone. Whether you’re passionate about education, healthcare, the arts, or environmental conservation, planned giving offers a way to embed your values into the future through your charitable contributions.

     2. Tax Advantages

Another significant advantage of planned giving is the potential tax benefits it can provide. Certain types of planned gifts can offer immediate tax deductions, which can reduce your taxable income for the year in which the gift is made. Additionally, planned giving can help in reducing estate taxes. In some cases, planned gifts can even provide income to you or your loved ones during your lifetime, offering a dual benefit of both charitable support and financial return.

How to Get Started with Planned Giving

You might be thinking, “This sounds complex—how do I get started?” The good news is that planned giving doesn’t have to be complicated.

Start by reflecting on your values and the causes that are most important to you. Consider what charities or organizations you are passionate about and how you would like to support them. This step is crucial as it helps identify the right planned giving strategy that aligns with your values and financial goals.

Next, connect with an experienced estate planning attorney who can guide you through the planned giving process. Their expertise will ensure that your planned giving strategy is both effective and aligned with your financial objectives. At our firm, we assist clients in fulfilling their charitable giving goals, and we can help you do the same.

Information in this article is provided for educational purposes only and not intended to constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for help with your specific situation.

For assistance with Maryland and D.C. wills, estate planning and probate, contact the

Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC at

410-995-7719