Securing Your Legacy
In a world where every action counts, planning for the future takes on a profound significance. Including Pine Tree Society in your will or as a beneficiary designation is a powerful way to extend your impact beyond your lifetime. This gesture not only ensures that your values and passions continue to thrive but also provides vital support to causes that matter most to you.
Everybody needs a will
Whether you’re 18 or 108, everyone should have a will in place. People use wills to choose who gets their property, name guardians for minor children, provide a plan for pets, and more.
Through a will, many people also choose to leave a part of their estate to Pine Tree Society and make an impact on the causes they love, for years to come.
Why give in your will?
- Continue to use assets or property during your lifetime
- Potentially reduce your estate tax burden
- Leave a lasting legacy to Pine Tree Society
Common gifted assets in wills and trusts
- Financial accounts
- Real estate
- Vehicles
- Brokerage accounts
- Crypto and NFTs
- Personal property
Beneficiary Designations
Make us a beneficiary of your IRA or other “non-probate” assets
Why beneficiary designations are so powerful
Assets not included in your will are called non-probate assets. Examples are 401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance policies, and other accounts. Designating Pine Tree Society as a beneficiary can have a big impact and may avoid unwanted taxes for your heirs.
Charitable benefits
- Receive an estate tax charitable deduction
- Reduce the burden of taxes on your family
- Continue to use assets or property during your lifetime
- Leave a lasting legacy to Pine Tree Society
Common gifted assets for beneficiaries
- IRA
- 401(k)
- Life insurance
- Joint real estate
- Joint bank accounts
- Joint property ownership
We encourage you to consult your attorney or financial advisor when planning your estate. For those looking to begin with a basic will at no cost, the resources below may be helpful:
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LawHelp.org (find legal aid and trusted referrals by state)
Pine Tree Society does not provide legal or tax advice and does not endorse any third-party provider.
Stocks and securities
Many people love donating stock or mutual funds because it may help them avoid paying capital gains taxes.
Donor Advised Funds
Easily recommend grants to Pine Tree Society for tax-efficient giving.
Qualified Charitable Distributions
Use your IRA to make tax-free gifts that benefit you and our mission.
Real Estate
Donate real estate to make a lasting impact, unlocking the hidden potential of your property’s value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "non-probate" asset?
A non-probate asset is an account or other asset that won’t be governed by the decisions you make in a will. Instead, these accounts commonly have an assigned beneficiary that you choose. Types of non-probate assets include many retirement accounts, life insurance, some bank accounts and some assets (like a house or vehicle) that you jointly own with another person.
Which non-probate asset is most commonly given to charity?
The most commonly gifted non-probate asset is an IRA or 401(k). This is because these accounts are always taxed (even for people below the estate tax threshold). Giving these accounts to charity keeps your heirs from having to pay unexpected taxes.
Is a beneficiary designation different from a will?
Yes! Even if you have a will in place you still need to designate beneficiaries for your non-probate assets.
Is my estate big enough to leave a planned gift?
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
Does it cost anything to make beneficiary designations?
No. You can usually make these easily and at no cost to you.
Can I edit my designations after I'm done?
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Can my gift remain anonymous?
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Does it cost anything to plan my estate?
FreeWill can help you make a will or trust at no cost to you. You can use this to complete your plans, or you may choose to use the same tools to get your affairs in order before visiting an attorney (who is likely to have a fee associated with finalizing your plans).
Can I edit my documents after I'm done?
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Is my private information secure with FreeWill
Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.
We’re here to help you meet your goals!
Our team would be happy to speak with you in confidence about your giving goals, with no obligation.