Make a legacy

Even a gift in your will of 1% of your estate can make an enormous difference in the lives of people in need. As you explore the various ways to create a legacy, we look forward to assisting you. The future of our organization is built upon a foundation of thoughtful and purposeful planned giving.

If you have included us in your estate plans, or would like more information on how to do so, please let us know so that we can welcome you as a member of our Legacy Society. Remembering Catholic Charities in your will may have tax advantages for your estate while your gift makes a difference for generations to come.

Should you wish to include us in your will or trust, please note that our legal name is Catholic Charities, Inc. – Archdiocese of Hartford. Your attorney may want to know our tax identification number: 06-0667607.

Wills and Bequests

A gift through your will or trust is one of the most popular and flexible ways that you can support our mission for generations to come. Our suggest language for naming Catholic Charities in your will is:

A general bequest: “I give the sum of_______ dollars ($_____) to Catholic Charities, Inc. – Archdiocese of Hartford for the general purpose and use in support of its mission.”

You Can Decide How Your Gift Will Be Used

You may indicate if you would like us to use your gift to support a specific program or service we offer, or if you would like your gift to be applied to a particular local office. Unrestricted gifts will be used where they are most needed in your local area. Our suggested language for naming a specific program of Catholic Charities in your will is:

Gift for preferred purpose: “I give ______________ to Catholic Charities, Inc. – Archdiocese of Hartford. It is my wish that this gift be specifically used to support [insert specific intent]. If it becomes inappropriate or impossible to accomplish the purpose of the gift as described herein, then Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Hartford may designate this bequest to be used for the benefit of a substantially similar purpose.”

Other Kinds of Planned Giving

After a person’s death, retirement accounts are exposed to income taxes, and in some cases, estate taxes. A way to avoid these taxes on your retirement plan is to give those assets to a charity. By designating Catholic Charities as your beneficiary, you will ensure 100% of the value of your account will benefit the individuals, families, and communities we serve.

A beneficiary designation gift is a simple and affordable way to make a gift to support Catholic Charities. You can designate us as a beneficiary of a retirement, investment, or bank account or your life insurance policy. A residuary beneficiary receives your estate’s remaining assets only after all specific bequests, estate taxes, debts, and other expenses have been deducted.

Additional planned giving options exist under current tax laws that may have immediate tax benefits for you, your family, and your estate. Some of these options continue to provide you with income during your lifetime while offering significant tax benefits. Your attorney can provide the most accurate advice on estate planning for your personal situation and charitable intentions.