What is meant by planned giving?

Planned giving refers to gifts that will benefit LSS/NCA in the future while helping the donor achieve his or her personal financial goals today. Surprisingly, planned giving often allows donors to make a larger contribution than they thought possible because of the tax and income benefits available to them.

What are the potential tax and income benefits to me, the donor?

Take the case of someone who has an asset -- such as a certificate of deposit (CD) that is coming due -- that can no longer garner the interest income it once did. By using that asset to establish a charitable gift annuity for the ultimate benefit of LSS/NCA, the donor receives an immediate charitable income tax deduction and also receives quarterly income for life at a very attractive fixed rate, some of which is protected from income tax. View details and rates on gift annuities and trusts.

With these tax and income benefits, the gift to LSS/NCA generally costs the donor considerably less than its initial value!

Can assets other than cash be used for a planned gift arrangement?

Yes! Donating appreciated assets such as securities or real estate can bring even more benefits to the donor. By giving these assets to LSS/NCA to establish a charitable gift annuity or a charitable remainder trust, the donor reduces or eliminates capital gains tax liability and still receives tax and income benefits. View details and rates on gift annuities and trusts.

There are several methods by which real estate can be donated, including some in which the donors retain lifetime use of the property.

What about estate planning?

Estate planning is an important component of planned giving. Donors who want to remember LSS/NCA in their estate plans should have a will that ensures that their wishes will be carried out. (If you don't have a will, the state will decide where your assets go!) A bequest to LSS/NCA can easily be included in your will and may help your heirs avoid some estate tax.

Click here to see suggested language for a bequest to LSS/NCA. Also, please let LSS/NCA know of your bequest intentions so that we can recognize you as a member of The 1917 Society.

Can my planned gifts be designated for a purpose of my choosing?

Yes, certainly. While unrestricted gifts and bequests are especially helpful because they can be used for the highest priority at the time, you are free to designate a particular use for your gift. Contributions for endowment, for example, are always priorities, and may be designated for student scholarships, faculty support, student life, the library, athletics, or a specific program in a designated School or department.

How do I know which type of estate and/or planned gift is right for me?

LSS/NCA highly recommends discussing any of your planned giving ideas with your family members and/or financial advisor.

What is the Lutheran Planned Giving Consortium?

LSS/NCA is one of seven members of the Lutheran Planned Giving Consortium, which is a partnership linking the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Foundation, the Metropolitan Washington, DC ELCA Synod, and the other affiliated Lutheran ministries. Being a member of the Consortium gives us access to planned giving resources and professionals to better serve our donors and offer information about planned giving.

How do I find out more about estate and planned giving opportunities at LSS/NCA?

Please contact Summer Parrish, Director of Development at ParrishS@lssnca.org or (202) 723-3000.