American Red Cross

How do I establish a life income gift?

Family obligations and the need to provide for retirement, coupled with the high cost of living, make it difficult for many people to consider substantial charitable gifts now. But there is a way to have the satisfaction of making a meaningful lifetime gift without sacrifice. In fact, you can get current income tax and financial benefits. It is called a life income gift. You irrevocably transfer some assets to the Red Cross now, and in return, you (and a survivor, if you wish) receive income for life. As a result, the assets are used to carry out our mission.

By making a life income gift to the Red Cross, you will receive the following benefits, in addition to the pleasure of knowing the good work your gift will do. The benefits include:

• A charitable deduction in the year you make the gift for the present value of our right to eventually receive the assets.

• You free up appreciated investment to maximize yield, diversify, or both--often without paying tax on the capital gain.
• Your effective yield is increased by substantial income tax savings.
• Income can be taxed more favorably in some plans.
• You unburden yourself of investment concerns.
• Your probate and estate administration costs may be reduced.

For details on this program, sample rates, and other giving opportunities, please contact our Planned Giving Officer Kathleen Wright by sending an email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling 1-888-868-1992.