Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions dealing with Charitable Giving. Please contact our office with any additional questions or concerns you may have.

How do I leave a gift to my favorite charity?

You can arrange for a gift several ways, the most common being through a charitable gift in a will or living trust. Many people set aside a certain dollar amount. Others leave a percentage of their estate or any assets left over after their family has been provided for. Some people choose to donate cash, securities, real or personal property. Others leave life insurance policies, or funds from a retirement account or other financial asset.

Must I have a sizeable estate in order to leave a gift?

Anyone can leave a gift. "Estate" is simply a word used to describe any money, property, or personal belongings that you own at the time of your death. Most people leave an estate when they die, even though they may not have had a great deal of wealth.

Do I have to state my wish to leave a gift to a specific organization?

A charitable bequest will not take effect unless you state your intention in your will or living trust. Without a will, you have no influence over your belongings after death. Your property and finances are settled according to state laws, whether or not they coincide with your wishes.

Do I tell the charity that I've left them a gift?

The decision is yours. However, by including the organization in the planning of the gift they can inform you about specific opportunities for giving and ensure that your specific objectives for the gift will be met. Nonprofit organizations often like to know in advance so they can recognize your generosity.

Can I leave a gift in the memory of a loved one?

A gift in memory of a loved one is a wonderful way to recognize someone who has made a difference in your life. Contact the organization you wish to benefit through your memorial gift to discuss the options. This kind of memorial gift can be arranged in your will. You just need to make it clear that the gift is given in memory of a particular person or for a specific use.

Links regarding Maryland Charitable Giving:

Baltimore Community Foundation, Inc. 

http://www.bcf.org

Community Foundation of the Chesapeake, Inc. 

www.communityfoundationchesapeake.org

Leave a Legacy, Maryland 

http://www.leavealegacymd.org/