Cash is still the most popular way to make charitable gifts. And your gift of cash to a qualified charity prior to December 31st could cost you much less at tax-filing time.

For example, if you make a $2000 gift before December 31 and are in the 27% tax bracket, your gift could save you $540 in taxes.

Life insurance is a unique way to give to charity. To qualify, the charity needs to became both owner and beneficiary; no incidents of ownership can be retained.

If the policy is paid up, you charitable contribution is generally the replacement value or cost basis of the policy, whichever is less. Ongoing premiums paid on a gifted life insurance policy also qualify for charitable deductions.

Gifts of tangible personal property related to the charity's exempt purposes are are fully tax-deductible at fair market value. Gifts of tangible personal property given to charity which are not related to its tax-exempt purposes are limited to cost basis for determining your tax deduction.

The Unitrust provides a unique way to give-offering substantial tax savings while providing an additional benefit: annual income to you or your family.

The unitrust is funded with an asset-appreciated property or securities are usually best. Within the unitrust, the assets can be sold and the proceeds reinvested to produce a greater yield for the donor(s) or beneficiary(s).

The income stream is a fixed percentage (not less than 5%) of the net asset value of the trust, which is revalued at least annually. As the value of the trust increases, so does the income payout, providing a hedge against inflation.

Many of us look at the charities we believe in and dream of what we might do; in words of the song, " . . . if I were a rich man."

The truth is that the tradition of charitable giving-an American tradition unparalleled by any other society-and the impact of charitable organizations on our society is based on a "grassroots" participation.

And, though most off us may never be "rich" in the sense in which that word is typically used, each of us can be a philanthropist.

By taking advantage of the current tax laws which encourage and support gifts to qualified charities, each of us is able to make every dollar work a little harder as we perpetuate one of our greatest traditions.

Please click here and we will be pleased to provide more information and assist in any way possible as you consider your participation in this celebrated tradition. Our assistance is provided with no cost or obligation and is completely confidential.