Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Wills
Do I need a will?
Without a will, the state's inflexible rules dictate who will receive your assets. There would be no input from you about specific loved ones or important causes.
Do I need an attorney to make a will?
We encourage you to consult an advisor as you consider your estate plans. We can help you identify an estate attorney if you want help.
Can I change my mind?
Yes, you can change plans anytime and you keep full control of assets as long as you live.
What about my family?
Most people put family needs first before leaving a small percentage for LLS. Your family will understand your concern about life-saving research.
Why should I tell LLS about my bequest?
We recognize this is a private matter but by letting us know, we might be able to suggest tax-saving ideas. Knowing about your bequest will also help LLS plan for the future and, most importantly, let us thank you during your lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Charitable Gift Annuities
What will my payments be?
Age has an advantage in charitable gift annuities. The older the payment recipient(s) are when the annuity is funded, the higher the rate. And the rate is stable for life regardless of stock market fluctuations.
In addition to a fixed return, you'll also enjoy other tax benefits including tax-free income, capital gains tax advantages and a charitable income tax deduction.
Below are current sample rates:
| Single Beneficiary | Two Beneficiaries | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | Annuity Rate | Ages | Annuity Rate |
| 70 | 5.6% | 70 & 75 | 5.2% |
| 75 | 6.2% | 75 & 80 | 5.7% |
| 80 | 7.3% | 80 & 85 | 6.6% |
| 85 | 8.3% | 85 & 90 | 8.0% |
Will I receive a tax deduction for my gift and how are my payments taxed?
Yes, you will be eligible for an income tax deduction when you fund the gift annuity. A substantial portion of the payments will be tax-free for the life expectancy of the income recipient(s).
When will I receive my payments?
You will receive quarterly payments by check or direct deposit to your bank account.
Can I create a gift annuity to benefit someone else?
Yes. For example, an adult child might provide financial support for an older parent. The parent receives a rate based on their age and the adult child receives an income tax deduction based on the parent's age too.
You might also use a gift annuity to provide a retirement benefit to a valued employee. As in the example above, the donor receives a deduction based on the income recipient's age.
If I'm under 65, is there an annuity option for me?
Yes. A deferred gift annuity can delay payments to a future date. It gives you a larger tax deduction immediately and a higher rate of return when payments begin.
For some, a deferred gift annuity can combine charitable giving with retirement planning, particularly for those unable to make additional payments to retirement plans.
What should I do next?
To receive a personalized illustration of your return, deductions and tax benefits, contact our Planned Giving team at 833-557-4488 at legacy@lls.org.
To read more about Wills, Annuities & Planned Gifts, please access the links below.
A Gift in Your Will
Retirement Plans, Insurance Policies Beneficiary Designations
Charitable Gift Annuities
Trusts
Ensuring Your Wishes Are Carried Out
Estate Planning Tools
Legacy Circle
Allied Professionals