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Any of the above gift
plans can be placed in a testamentary plan as provided in a living trust
document, will, or other testamentary device. Many people plan to leave
their homes to a charity in their wills. Naturally, they can't make those
gifts now because they need their homes. You can now leave your home or farm
to your own family foundation account and retain the right to live there for
your life (the life of your surviving spouse or other person can also be
added). You get a sizable current charitable income tax deduction. The tax
deduction is taken the year the property is donated based on the appraised
amount and may be carried over for five additional years. The amount of your
tax savings depends on your age and the value of your home. A gift of your
home now, with retained life residency for you, gives you the same estate tax
benefit as a gift by will. In addition, you save probate costs and receive an
estate tax deduction. Similar tax benefits are allowed for a gift of your farm,
and you retain the right to use the farm for your life (and to have a
survivor use it for life, if you like). |