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I D E A S A N D I N S I G H T S F R O M S H A R P E G R O U P

The Emergence of Blended Gifts: Are Boomers Finally Booming? Page 2

Why Year-End Is the Most Generous Time of the Year

PAGE 4 PAGE 5 PAGE 6

Announcing2017 Gift Planning Seminar Dates

Claim Against a Donor’s Estate Creates a Media Frenzy

Last month marked the 30th anniversary of an article that appeared in the September 11, 1986 issue of the Wall Street Journal. The article, entitled “Baby Boomers Have ‘60s Heritage, But Charities Say They’re Cheap,” examined the state of baby boomer philanthropy as the first boomers turned 40.

At the time, charities were bemoaning the fact that baby boomers weren’t giving like their parents, and some predicted they never would. I am quoted in the article, stat-ing that “we see a major concern among organizations that their main donor base is getting older and not being replaced by the younger generation.”

Sound familiar? It seems not a day goes by without someone mentioning the fact that millennials are not yet a major force in philanthropy, nor does there seem to be charities with significant numbers of millennial donors. This should come as no surprise. Just as the baby boom-ers were in 1986, the millennials are in early career stages, buying homes, having children, planning for education and all the other expenses that can impact the amount of dis-cretionary spending―and giving―they feel they can do.

Reaching their golden yearsBut what of the baby boomers today? According to indus-try and IRS reports, the baby boomers (who now range in age from 52 to 70) are finally poised to reshape philanthro-py and usher in what may be a golden age of charitable giving in America. The Chronicle of Philanthropy reported earlier this year that 60 percent of the largest gifts made in 2015 were from donors over 70. By contrast, only 8 percent of the largest gifts were made by donors under 50, a group that comprises the totality of the millennials and most of the members of Generation X that came before them.

The remaining 32 percent of the largest gifts were made by baby boomers. Based on this data, a case can be made that major gifts should grow dramatically as the first boom-

2

ers cross the 70-age threshold this year and begin what may be the greatest period for philanthropy in their lifetimes. IRS data released in August 2016 reveals that just 5 percent of itemized gifts in 2014 came from millennials, while taxpay-ers over age 55 accounted for 60 percent of such gifts. It is important to note that itemized deductions account for some 80 percent of individual gifts each year, and the vast majority of major gifts are itemized on tax returns.

There are lessons to be learned from this information for those who are responsible for major current and de-ferred gift development. First and perhaps most impor-tantly, let’s not get in too big a hurry to rush estate gifts from baby boomers.

The average age of death for bequest donors is in the range of the mid-to-late 80s. Studies by Sharpe and others have consistently revealed that as many as 80 percent of bequests typically come from donors who make their final wills after the age of 75. [See “Has a Bequest Boom Begun?” in September 2014 Give & Take.] If this is the case, then it will be 15 to 20 years or more before large numbers of baby boomer estates begin to swell estate income from deaths among the 80+ population. While it is very important to make sure charitable interests are included in the earliest wills, most of those wills provide primarily for families. Stud-ies have revealed that in the case of 50 percent or more of wills that include charitable provisions, the next-to-last will did not contain such gifts. [See “What’s Wrong With Focus-ing on Bequest Intentions From 40-Year-Olds?” in December 2013 Give & Take.]

The next 20 years belong to organizations and institutions that are able to master the art of helping baby boomers structure major gifts―both current and deferred. This article marks the first in a series that will address the many ways baby boomer fundraising will differ from what was effective with the generations before them and what is likely to be different for those who follow them.

The Emergence of Blended Gifts: Are Boomers Finally Booming?

Older baby boomers are now entering the age at which they are planning the ultimate gifts of their lifetimes and will increasingly be giving in much more sophisticated ways than previous generations.

by Robert F. Sharpe, Jr.

October 2016

3

How will boomers give?For the foreseeable future the primary task will be to raise as much money as possible from boomers in ways that result in spendable cash as soon as possible. This will of-ten involve gifts of more complex assets such as art, real estate, business interests, etc. Why? Many reasons, but primarily because the bulk of baby boomers’ securities and other traditional investment assets are locked up in quali-fied retirement plans that can’t be tapped for gifts until age 70½ for IRAs and not at any age for other plans without re-porting the gifts as income prior to hoped-for deductions.

Most boomers are not yet ready for even the most common life income gift plans—charitable remainder trusts and gift annuities. For instance, one of the largest administrators of charitable remainder trusts reports that 68 is the most common age of CRT beneficiaries at time of funding. A recent Sharpe study of nearly 500 unitrusts created by an Ivy League university revealed exactly the same average age of 68. As for gift annuities, the ACGA has found that 79 is the most common age to set up a CGA. The Ivy school average was 81. Baby boomers are just now entering the period of life during which CRTs are most likely to be funded, and it will be at least another decade before they are entering into immediate payment CGAs in large numbers.

In the meantime, it is critical that fundraisers learn how to structure combinations of current and deferred gifts that provide significant gift income prior to the expira-tion of a decades-long life expectancy.

Enter blended giftsIn recent years, the term “blended gift” has increasingly been used to refer to various ways individuals can make signif-icant charitable gifts. The original use of this term can be found in a presentation I made at the Partners in Philan-thropic Giving national conference in Anaheim in 1995.

As the focal point of the presentation entitled “How Will the Baby Boomers Boom?”, I noted that the first baby boomers were approaching the age of 50 and would soon be entering the period in life when many major gifts are planned and implemented.

Given that baby boomers married later than previous generations, were facing unprecedented retirement peri-ods that could last for decades and were, in many cases, responsible for the economic well-being of aging parents,

www.SHARPEnet.com

I predicted that this generation would be more inclined to make larger charitable gifts differently from previous generations and would use what I referred to in quotes as “blended gifts” to do so.

The term “blended gift” was originally meant to describe the new and different ways that baby boomers and other seniors might be expected to make gifts. Some gifts would be outright immediate transfers of cash and other assets, while others would be deferred for a num-ber of years or until the death of one or more individuals. “Blended gifts,” on the other hand, would be structured as combinations of current and deferred gifts, with the focus on the total value of the gift.

In subsequent years, the term “blended gift” has been conflated in some quarters to simply describe a basic com-bination of an outright immediate gift and a commitment to make a future gift through a will, trust or other revocable estate planning vehicle.

The primary driver for this type of “blended gift” is that it is simple on its face and little training is required to pre-pare staff and volunteers to “ask” for it.

While this approach can result in larger gifts than might otherwise be received, there are more effective and valuable ways to structure blended gifts that provide greater benefits for both the client and the philanthropic beneficiary. ■

Read part two of this article featuring examples of blend-ed gifts in next month’s Give & Take or read the entire article now online at www.SHARPEnet.com/give-and-take/ current-issue.

To learn more about blended gifts, join us for our new sem-inar, “Structuring Blended Gifts,” which will kick off our 2017 seminar schedule on January 24-25, 2017, in Memphis. See Page 5 for more details.

Sharpe Group on the Road

Sharpe Group representatives will be available to talk with you at the National Conference on Philanthropic Planning in Dallas, October 17-19, 2016, and the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy’s International Conference in Chicago, October 26-29, 2016. ■

Robert F. Sharpe, Jr. is the Chairman of Sharpe Group.

Why Year-End Is the Most Generous Time of the Year

Donors give at year-end for a variety of reasons, some ra-tional and some emotional. As the final day of the calen-dar year, December 31 presents donors with a natural and definite deadline for tax planning purposes. If a gift is not made by that date, the donor will not benefit from a tax deduction the following April. If the gift is postponed just one day and is made instead on January 1, the tax benefits will be delayed a full year.

Although donors rarely cite the charitable deduction as the primary motivation for making a gift, it nonetheless pro-vides an important incentive for many of America’s most generous donors. In fact, Giving USA estimates that more

4

than 80 percent of individual gifts are made by taxpayers who itemize deductions when filing their tax returns. For older donors who don’t itemize, a vehicle for giving that is particularly popular at the end of the year is the Charitable IRA provision.

The period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve is also a special time for many. The spirit of the holidays and more time with family and friends create an environ-ment that is conducive to giving and sharing. Many also choose this time to review their finances and share their good fortune with others, including the charitable interests they support.

Keep in mind also that many donors receive bonuses at the end of the year and simply have more resources from which to give during year-end.

Sharpe Group has several tools to help you make the most of year-end appeals this year, including brochures to send to potential donors and a strategic guide to encourage gifts at year-end, featuring a variety of helpful tips and tools including sample communications. For more information about en-couraging year-end giving, including the Charitable IRA, visit www.SHARPEnet.com/publications/yearend. ■

It’s no secret many charitable organizations receive a large percentage of their gifts in the final quarter of the year, with the most gifts arriving between Thanksgiving and December 31. But simply knowing year-end is a popular time to give is not enough to ensure your organization receives its share. Understanding how and why people choose to give at this time can help you make the most of the season.

The purpose of this publication is to provide general planning information. It is not

intended as legal, accounting or other professional advice. For assistance in planning

charitable gifts with tax and other financial implications, the services of appropriate

advisors should be obtained. ©MMXVI RFSCO, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 8444-16

When making a gift of securities or

other assets, check with your advisors to

ensure your gift is completed properly

and in a timely manner. You should allow

additional time for gifts of mutual fund

shares. We will be pleased to assist if you

have questions.

Charitable IRALast year, Congress made permanent

the popular provision allowing people aged

70½ or older to make tax-free gifts of up to

$100,000 per person per year directly from

individual retirement accounts (IRAs).

Check with us or your IRA administrator

for more information or assistance.

Gifts of a Lifetime

At this time of year, many also choose

to review their long-range estate and

financial plans. Wills, trusts, life insurance

policies, retirement accounts and other

planning vehicles can offer special ways to

make future charitable gifts.

As you review your plans, keep in mind

changes in the law have resulted in lower

federal estate and gift taxes for many,

leaving more assets available for both loved

ones and charitable interests.

There are ways to provide for

significant future gifts while enjoying

additional income, immediate tax savings

and other benefits today. Be sure to also

consider other sources from which to make

gifts, such as a donor advised fund, family

business or foundation.

Your Gifts, Your Goals

During this season of giving, there are

many ways you can make meaningful gifts

and accomplish your charitable goals in the

most effective ways.

Please contact us if we can assist you or

your advisors in any way.

at Year-EndivingG

EAR-END

I V I NGA TY

G

YOUR GUIDE TO YEAR-END GIVING1

Commentary, advice and communications materials produced by Sharpe Group

Fall 2016

THE MOST GENEROUS TIME OF THE YEAR

YOUR GUIDETOYEAR-END GIVING:

GivinG

Ways7to Boost

The purpose of this publication is to provide general planning information. It is not intended as legal, accounting or other professional advice. For assistance in planning charitable gifts with tax and other financial implications, the services of appropriate advisors should be obtained. ©MMXVI RFSCO, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 8024-16

property, you may eliminate tax on up to 30 percent of your AGI. Larger amounts may be used to reduce taxes in as many as five future years.

Check with us or your advisors if you have questions about the tax planning or other aspects of your gifts.

“Bunch” deductible expenses for savings

The timing of charitable gifts is totally within your control. If you do not normally have enough deductions to itemize them, you may be able to concentrate, or “bunch,” your deductible expenditures, such as mortgage interest and taxes, in some years.

In that case, you may want to consider making larger charitable gifts in years they will yield the greatest benefit. As you can see, whether you give cash or other assets, a minimum amount of planning may help you maximize your tax savings.

Enjoy tax-free IRA giving

If you are aged 70½ or older, you can direct charitable gifts of up to $100,000 per year from individual retirement accounts (IRAs) on a totally tax-free basis. These amounts can also count towards your required minimum distribution for the year.

Plan now to give laterMany people also review their overall

estate and financial plans at the end of the year. Remember that these plans can also include charitable gifts.

For example, you may wish to include charitable gifts in your plans for a specific amount, a percentage or what is left after providing for heirs.

Retirement plans, living trusts and life insurance policies can also offer convenient opportunities for giving. Other plans may help you increase income, save taxes and allow you to share your blessings with those you care most about.

TIMEfor Giving

October 2016

Sharpe Group Kicks Off 2017 Gift Planning Seminars with “Structuring Blended Gifts”

Structuring Blended Gifts: Planned Gifts That Produce Current Revenue

Tuesday-WednesdayJanuary 24-25, 2017

Holiday Inn Downtown MemphisFor more info and to register:

www.SHARPEnet.com/seminars

For nearly 50 years, Sharpe Group has been leading the way with major current and deferred gift learning opportu-nities for nonprofit organizations and institutions across the country. To kick off our 50th year of training, Sharpe will debut a new offering in January: “Structuring Blended Gifts: Planned Gifts That Produce Current Revenue.”

The new seminar will focus on how nonprofits can use a variety of gift planning vehicles to help donors discover ways they can give more than they thought possible.

This session will be especially helpful when working with baby boomers. As the oldest boomers turn 70 this year, they will begin looking at ways to coordinate their re-tirement and estate planning with their charitable giving. (See article Page 2.)

The first presentation of “Structuring Blended Gifts: Planned Gifts That Produce Current Revenue” will be held January 24-25, 2017, at the Holiday Inn in downtown Mem-phis, Tennessee. For travel information and to register, vis-it www.SHARPEnet.com/seminars or call 901.680.5318 with questions. ■

www.SHARPEnet.com

Hold the Date

Politics, Tax Reform & Philanthropy A Special Postelection Sharpe Group Webinar

What could this year’s election mean for the future of philanthropy in general and major gift planning in particular? How might the new president and changes in the House and Senate affect charitable giving and thus the fundraising potential of nonprofits across the country? Discover how proposed tax policy changes of the winning candidate could impact donors in the near term and future. Which gifts are likely to benefit or be penalized under tax reform proposals? How might changes affect nonprofits differently depending on the nature of their missions and other factors?

Join Robert F. Sharpe, Jr. and Barlow Mann on Wednesday, November 16, 2016, 1:30 p.m. ET for a live Sharpe we-binar detailing the tax reform proposals of newly elected officials and their impact on charitable giving.

Registration: $95 per site

For more information and to register, visit www.SHARPEnet.com/webinars, or contact us at 901.680.5300 or info@SHARPEnet.com. ■

Chicago March 23-24, 2017

Washington D.C. September 14-15, 2017

Memphis January 24-25, 2017Washington D.C. April 18-19, 2017New York August 10-11, 2017 Chicago October 2-3, 2017

Chicago June 29-30, 2017

Washington D.C. November 2-3, 2017

An Introduction to Planned Giving

New Offering: Structuring Blended Gifts

Integrating Major and Planned Gifts

5

Register for a 2017 Sharpe seminar now at www.SHARPEnet.com/seminars.

6

Claim Against a Donor’s Estate Creates Media Frenzy

How one university’s pursuit of a promised gift gained media attention and raised concerns about how to handle deceased donors’ outstanding pledges.

A recent claim filed against the estate of a donor to a major university to collect millions of dollars in outstanding pledges created a media firestorm that was covered by the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Fortune, The Chronicle of Philanthropy and numerous other media outlets. The resulting negative publicity no doubt played a role in the university’s decision to drop its claim to nearly $10 million in outstanding documented pledges a few days after the story broke.

In the wake of the publicity, many fundraisers expressed concerns about the wisdom of pursuing such a claim against a donor’s estate and worried that such a high profile story could have a chilling effect on other donors’ willingness to make signif-icant pledges and “document” their intentions—especially those through their will and other estate plans. This complex and unusual case brings to the forefront a number of legal, ac-counting and other issues regarding pledges that the gift planning com-munity should consider.

First, is a pledge a legally binding agreement? In many instances, the

October 2016

Barlow Mann is Chief Operating Officer of Sharpe Group.

by Barlow Mann

answer is no. Some state laws may even preclude collection of a legally binding pledge. A pledge is quite of-ten merely the manifestation of a do-nor’s intention to make a gift at some point. Even though the pledge is re-ally only a statement of intent, most pledges are eventually fulfilled. In other cases, a charity and donor may enter into a contract that both parties agree will be legally binding.

From an accounting standpoint, a basic pledge does not rise to the level of an unconditional promise to make a gift. If, however, the donor has made an unconditional promise to make a gift, the commitment should nor-mally be recognized as income and reflected on the charitable organiza-tion’s balance sheet under Financial Accounting Rules. For tax purposes, the gift will, however, generally be deductible only in years when cash or other assets are actually transferred.

In recent years, particularly when there is a large capital campaign, there has been an increased interest in documenting pledges. In some cases, large pledges may be accom-panied with documentation that spe-cifically directs that the donor’s estate pay the balance of any outstanding pledge payments. The enforceability of such a pledge against the estate depends upon state laws.

Pursuing a pledgeAs a practical matter, if a donor pass-es away with an outstanding pledge, the charitable organization may well need to file a claim in probate in or-der to receive the gift that the donor intended. In many cases, the person-al representative or executor of the estate would not otherwise know about the pledge commitment and would require the claim as part of the court-supervised probate process. Even when a claim is made, however,

payment is not guaranteed. The gift may or may not be received depend-ing on the solvency of the estate and other factors such as the accompany-ing documentation.

Any number of circumstances may impact an organization’s deci-sion to make a claim or refrain from doing so. For example, if the organiza-tion relied on the donor’s commitment to construct and name a building, it would be a routine matter to file a claim. On the other hand, if the donor had suffered financial setbacks, or if the family was not amenable to the pledge commitment, the organization might not pursue a claim.

There are many gray areas in which the decision to submit a claim is not clear and the resulting negative public relations could impact future fundraising efforts.

Each case should be evaluated independently to determine whether a claim is warranted. That being said, however, remember that a binding pledge represents a property right of the charity and it may have no choice but to pursue the claim under applicable law. Not to do so would, in effect, result in the organization making an impermissi-ble “gift” to the non-charitable heirs.

For an examination of another similar case from 1974 and the Florida Su-preme Court’s ruling, check out our Sep-tember 8, 2016 blog post “Let’s Look at the 1974 Jordan Case From Florida” at www.SHARPEnet.com/blog. ■

The Estate Tax Turns 100

A look at the federal estate tax on the acknowledgment of its 100th anniversary

and its impact on American life.

The “modern” federal estate tax, instituted in 1916, is turning 100 this year. Three years after the 13th Amendment estab-lished our national income tax, Congress passed the Revenue Act of 1916, which levied a federal estate tax to raise mon-ey for WWI. The original tax maxed out at just 10 percent of amounts over approximately $1 million in today’s dollars.

Some states also have their own estate and inheritanc-es taxes. Washington state has enacted the highest rates, topping out at 20 percent. Several others use a top rate of 16 to 18 percent: New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Kentucky, Illinois, Minne-sota and Nebraska.

On the other hand, Indiana and Tennessee have made the decision to abolish their estate taxes. Over the years, many have argued for and against the tax, and no consen-sus has been reached. It is noteworthy that the majority of Americans live in states such as California, Texas and Flori-da that impose no state inheritance or estate tax.

It’s important to note that where federal and state tax-es exist, they tend to impact relatively few estates. That’s because of historically high exemption levels. In 2016, the federal estate and gift tax exemption only applied to es-tates valued at $5.45 million per person, up from $2 million as recently as 2008. A married couple may transfer up to $10.9 million with proper planning. Where taxes do apply, unlimited amounts can be transferred to surviving spouses and charitable recipients free of taxes. The combination of generous exemptions and deductions mean that fewer than 5,000 estates may pay any federal estate tax at all.

The practical impact of this is that over 99 percent of Americans can now pass all of their wealth to their heirs free of federal estate tax, and the majority who live in states that do not impose these taxes will owe no tax at the state level as well.

The current presidential candidates disagree on the fu-ture of the estate tax. Thus, given its repercussions on non-profits and their donors, gift planning professionals would be wise to have advice at the ready however this issue is resolved. [Sharpe Group is presenting a live postelection webinar on proposed tax reform plans. See Page 5.] ■

7 www.SHARPEnet.com

List of Federal Estate Tax Milestones

1797-1802 Federal stamps for all wills in probate fund the building of a navy for war in Europe.

1862-1865 A federal inheritance tax raises taxes for the Civil War.

1898-1902 A federal estate tax is imposed to fund the Spanish-American War.

1913 The 13th Amendment creates the current national income tax.

1916 Federal estate tax established.

1942 Federal estate tax base expanded to include life insurance paid for by the decedent, most powers of appointment and community property.

1948 Marital exemption enacted.

1976 Estate and gift taxes unified; generation-skipping transfer tax added; special valuation and payment rules for small businesses and farms created; marital deduction increased.

1981 Unlimited marital deduction introduced.

1987 Phase-out of graduated rates for estates over $10 million passed.

2001 Complete phase-out laws passed.

2010 Estate tax expires and is then reinstated retroac-tively for 2010 and raised to $5 million.

2013 Exemption raised to $5.25 million.

2016 Estate tax exemptions set at $5.45 million for in-dividuals, $10.9 million for married couples.

Stay tuned for more developments as the estate tax begins its second hundred years in 2017.

The nation’s tax laws and continued growth in the economy are providing powerful incentives for charitable giv-ing. In this positive environment, it’s a great time to remind your donors of the benefits of giving before the end of 2016.

Donors should be aware that tax law changes can mean greater potential savings from gifts made before year-end. Others may benefit from giving through retirement plans or noncash gifts such as stock.

Start the conversation with your donors now.

Sharpe’s 2016 year-end giving communications are a convenient and cost-effective way to share with donors the advantages of funding gifts with cash or other assets including appreci-ated property and other plans.

You can also order conve-niently from our online shop at www.SHARPEnet.com/publications.

901.680.5300 orders@SHARPEnet.com | www.SHARPEnet.com/publications

PersonalizationSharpe can add your logo and contact informa-tion on the front, back or both.

We include a sample cover letter, reply card text, P.S. language and suggested web/article copy for use with your publications.

Prefer something more unique to your brand? We can customize communications specifically for your needs.

Sharpe Group looks forward to working with you to ensure that 2016 will be a successful year for your organization. Call us at 901.680.5300 or visit www.SHARPEnet.com/publications.

How can you use year-end communications to encourage gifts this year?

As part of your regularly scheduled year-end appeal

As an insert in gift acknowledgments this fall

To include in pledge reminders and proposals

As handouts at donor events

As part of a mailing to members of your giving clubs and societies

As part of your digital fundraising strategy

WASHINGTON • ATLANTA • MEMPHIS • SAN FRANCISCO

The Year-End Season Is Here

The purpose of this publication is to provide general planning information. It is not intended as legal, accounting or other professional advice. For assistance in planning charitable gifts with tax and other financial implications, the services of appropriate advisors should be obtained. ©MMXVI RFSCO, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 8446-16

Charitable IRALast year, Congress made permanent

the popular provision allowing people aged 70½ or older to make tax-free gifts of up to $100,000 per person per year directly from individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Check with us or your IRA administrator for more information or assistance.

Gifts of a LifetimeAt this time of year, many also choose

to review their long-range estate and financial plans. Wills, trusts, life insurance policies, retirement accounts and other planning vehicles can offer special ways to make future charitable gifts.

As you review your plans, keep in mind changes in the law have resulted in lower federal estate and gift taxes for many, leaving more assets available for both loved ones and charitable interests.

There are ways to provide for significant future gifts while enjoying additional income, immediate tax savings and other benefits today.

Be sure to also consider other sources from which to make gifts, such as a donor advised fund, family business or foundation.

Your Gifts, Your GoalsDuring this season of giving, there are

many ways you can make meaningful gifts and accomplish your charitable goals in the most effective ways.

Please contact us if we can assist you or your advisors in any way. EAR-END

I V I NGA TY

Gat Year-EndivingG

TIMEfor Giving

The purpose of this publication is to provide general planning information. It is not intended as legal, accounting or other professional advice. For assistance in planning charitable gifts with tax and other financial implications, the services of appropriate advisors should be obtained. ©MMXVI RFSCO, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 8444-16

When making a gift of securities or other assets, check with your advisors to ensure your gift is completed properly and in a timely manner. You should allow additional time for gifts of mutual fund shares. We will be pleased to assist if you have questions.

Charitable IRALast year, Congress made permanent

the popular provision allowing people aged 70½ or older to make tax-free gifts of up to $100,000 per person per year directly from individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Check with us or your IRA administrator for more information or assistance.

Gifts of a LifetimeAt this time of year, many also choose

to review their long-range estate and financial plans. Wills, trusts, life insurance policies, retirement accounts and other planning vehicles can offer special ways to make future charitable gifts.

As you review your plans, keep in mind changes in the law have resulted in lower federal estate and gift taxes for many, leaving more assets available for both loved ones and charitable interests.

There are ways to provide for significant future gifts while enjoying additional income, immediate tax savings and other benefits today. Be sure to also consider other sources from which to make

gifts, such as a donor advised fund, family business or foundation.

Your Gifts, Your GoalsDuring this season of giving, there are

many ways you can make meaningful gifts and accomplish your charitable goals in the most effective ways.

Please contact us if we can assist you or your advisors in any way.

The purpose of this publication is to provide general planning information. It is not intended as legal, accounting or other professional advice. For assistance in planning charitable gifts with tax and other financial implications, the services of appropriate advisors should be obtained. ©MMXVI RFSCO, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 8024-16

property, you may eliminate tax on up to 30 percent of your AGI. Larger amounts may be used to reduce taxes in as many as five future years.

Check with us or your advisors if you have questions about the tax planning or other aspects of your gifts.

“Bunch” deductible expenses for savings

The timing of charitable gifts is totally within your control. If you do not normally have enough deductions to itemize them, you may be able to concentrate, or “bunch,” your deductible expenditures, such as mortgage interest and taxes, in some years.

In that case, you may want to consider making larger charitable gifts in years they will yield the greatest benefit. As you can see, whether you give cash or other assets, a minimum amount of planning may help you maximize your tax savings.

Enjoy tax-free IRA giving

If you are aged 70½ or older, you can direct charitable gifts of up to $100,000 per year from individual retirement accounts (IRAs) on a totally tax-free basis. These amounts can also count towards your required minimum distribution for the year.

Plan now to give laterMany people also review their overall

estate and financial plans at the end of the year. Remember that these plans can also include charitable gifts.

For example, you may wish to include charitable gifts in your plans for a specific amount, a percentage or what is left after providing for heirs.

Retirement plans, living trusts and life insurance policies can also offer convenient opportunities for giving. Other plans may help you increase income, save taxes and allow you to share your blessings with those you care most about.

Giving at Year-End (Type)Time for Giving (Clock)

Item # Title/Description Check Imprint Location Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Front Back Both None

Giving at Year-End (Berries)

84448124

Giving at Year-End (Trees)

84468448

YEOF 09/16

Giving Thanks at Year-End (Harvest)8024

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Imprinting InformationImprint Fee .........................................................$85 Use imprint on file New imprintPublications will be imprinted in black. Five lines maxi-mum. Logos and text for new imprints may be sent to imprints@SHARPEnet.com. For more information, visit SHARPEnet.com/publications/digital-artwork-submission-guidelines or call 901.680.5300.

Method of Payment Please bill me. Enclosed is a check for $ ____________ .

Please charge my: Mastercard Visa AmEx

Card # ________________________________Exp. date ___________

Name on card _____________________________________________

Signature __________________________________________________

Year-End Order Form 901.680.5300 Email orders@SHARPEnet.com

Imprinting Fee

SUBTOTAL

Shipping

GRAND TOTAL ______________

Prices based on total quantity of brochures ordered. Titles may be combined with other brochures for quantity pricing.

Quantity Pricing

Minimum 1,000 - 2,499 .................................. $.55 each 2,500 - 4,999 .................................. $.44 each 5,000 - 7,499 .................................. $.39 each 7,500 - 9,999 .................................. $.34 each 10,000 - 14,999 .................................. $.32 each 15,000 - 19,999 .................................. $.31 each 20,000 - 29,999 .................................. $.30 each 30,000 or more ............................Ask for quote

Price