Whatever your personal reason for engaging in philanthropy, there are two undeniable facts: Giving can be an incredibly fulfilling experience that, when carefully planned and structured, offers meaningful financial benefits.
A planned giving program also affords more control over what will be given, when it will be given and how it should be used. But which structure is the best fit for your personal circumstances and objectives?
The simplicity of donor-advised funds
Donor-advised funds (DAFs) allow you and your family to make a charitable contribution and receive an immediate tax deduction for the gift. In addition, you can take your time making recommendations for distributing the funds to the qualified nonprofit organizations you select (often with the ability to remain anonymous if you so desire).
Assets like appreciated stock that you may not be able to gift directly can be easily given through a donor-advised fund, since such assets are liquidated and converted to cash when you donate them.
DAFs provide a tax deduction of up to 50 percent of adjusted gross income (AGI) for cash contributions and 30 percent for appreciated assets. They eliminate the administrative burden by providing you with consolidated record keeping and tax reporting. And their simplicity makes them terrific vehicles for introducing philanthropy to your children and involving them in the grant-making process.
More grant-making control with a private foundation
Unlike DAFs, private foundations afford you complete control over grant-making and investment management. But because they are formal legal entities, foundations must be overseen by directors and trustees (the “board”) responsible for determining how foundation assets will be invested, where and when grants will be distributed and how large those grants should be.
If creating a recognizable legacy for your family name is important to you, the lifespan of a private foundation can continue on for generations. However, the costs to maintain a foundation can be considerable, and the administrative complexity can be daunting. Foundations are also required to distribute a minimum of 5 percent of assets annually and file separate federal and, in some instances, state income tax returns.
Which is right for you?
The decision between a DAF and a private foundation can be a difficult one, as each strategy comes with its own benefits and drawbacks. Predominantly, the decision comes down to one of control. With a DAF, you choose from a set of pre-existing investment strategies, whereas with a private foundation you’re empowered to make all investment decisions.
If you’re willing to relinquish some control over your gifting and investments, you can gain some key advantages with DAFs. Among them is favorable tax treatment, greatly reduced administrative responsibilities, lower establishment and ongoing costs, no minimum annual distribution requirements and donor anonymity.
Giving can unite your family across the years, geographic locations and life circumstances. No matter how old your children are, integrating philanthropy into your family life can be an excellent way to pass on healthy attitudes about money and helping others. Finding the optimal structure for your charitable giving, however, is an important step, and one that your advisor is well equipped to assist you with.
Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Investment Advisory Agreement for the DAF. SEIA does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with an independent tax advisor or attorney regarding your specific situation. Registered Representative/Securities offered through Signator Investors, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC, 2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067. SEIA, LLC and its investment advisory services are offered independent of Signator Investors, Inc., and any subsidiaries or affiliates.
