Make a Legacy Gift

Legacy giving (or planned giving) is a way to support the work of the Church through your estate. It may include tax tools which are available in life, or gifts given using estate and tax planning techniques after death. Everyone will leave a legacy – what will yours be?

Bequests

The simple insertion of a clause in your will can assure that a lasting gift will be made to ECF, and can also include your parish or other Episcopal institution. Ask about the exact language you should use to designate the beneficiary you choose. Many parishioners choose to "endow" their annual pledge to ensure that their gift continues to support for years to come. Suggested Bequest Language

Gift of Assets or Appreciated Securities

A gift of current assets by cash or appreciated securities is always appropriate and usually offers favorable tax advantages.

To make a gift, please submit your completed Gifting of Securities Form at least 72 hours prior to contacting your stock broker.

Gifts of IRAs or other tax-deferred savings

Persons with savings in the form of tax-deferred funds such as Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), 401(k) or 403(b) plans, or other qualified retirement plans, may find significant tax advantages in using these assets for their charitable giving in their estate plans. Tax-exempt organizations are not subject to the income tax that individuals are and thus are able to benefit from the full amount of the gift.

To make a gift, please submit your completed IRA Charitable Rollover Gift Form to both ECF and your IRA trustee.

Life insurance gift

Since many people have some form of life insurance, you may choose this vehicle to make a gift to the Church. If you would like to explore this, you can ask your insurance professional to help you.

Other Tools

A revocable living trust allows a gift of assets to be made now while retaining the right to retrieve those assets later if it becomes necessary.

Life income gifts such as charitable gift annuities and charitable remainder trusts provide income for yourself and your spouse for life, and still provide a gift to the church after your death. These gifts, particularly when they are funded with appreciated property, often provide donors increased income as well as favorable tax benefits.

Legacy Gift FAQs

Legacy Gifts

How is ECF funded?

ECF is funded by the Rt. Rev. Bennett J. Sims Endowment. We also raise funds through individual giving (e.g., donations, planned giving opportunities, and legacy gifts) and events (e.g., the annual Hunger Walk Run). We are the only ministry in the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta that provides opportunities for individuals to establish a lasting legacy to serve people experiencing poverty and oppression, as well as to honor their individual parishes in their estate. Unlike other organizations in the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, we are not funded by the Fair Share Assessment.