Planned giving, also called legacy planning, is a thoughtful way to ensure the future of Merrick House and help the individuals and families who rely on our programs and services to improve their lives.

There are many ways to make a planned gift and we have outlined some of the most common options below. It is recommended that you seek professional legal and financial advice to fully understand all of the tax deductions and ramifications. Please consider one or more of the following options as an opportunity to leave a meaningful legacy.

Donate Stocks or Bonds
Donating appreciated stocks or bonds that have been held for at least one year will neutralize capital gains and provide you with immediate income tax deduction for their full market value.

Remember Merrick House in Your Will
A simple bequest to Merrick House in your will provides future funding for Merrick House programs and services and is an easy way to leave a legacy.

Designate Merrick House in Your IRA or Other Retirement Plan
If you have an IRA or other retirement plan, you should be able to designate Merrick House as a beneficiary of all or part of your plan. Changes to your IRA or retirement plan can be made by contacting your plan’s administrator and requesting a change of beneficiary form.

Name Merrick House as a Beneficiary of Your Life Insurance Policy
If you have a life insurance policy, you may choose Merrick House as a beneficiary of that policy. If your current beneficiary is a loved one, you can designate a contingent beneficiary in the event your primary beneficiary is no longer living at the time of your death.

Establish a Charitable Trust
Build your charitable portfolio and Merrick House’s future with a charitable trust. It’s a great way to establish a gift for our future while generating income for the financial security of you and your family.

Create a Charitable Remainder Unitrust
Provide cash flow for yourself now, or beginning at a future date, while enjoying a current income tax deduction to create a hedge against inflation.

Create a Charitable Lead Trust
You can pay income to Merrick House for a specific term of years, reducing taxes on assets you pass to your loved ones. Your loved ones will receive the trust assets at the expiration of the trust term.