His attorney advised leaving the appreciated stock and real estate to his children - which would receive a step-up in basis - and the IRA to the nonprofit to avoid income and estate taxes.

"If I gave my IRA to my kids, it would be taxed heavily," Thomas explained. "But giving it to a nonprofit meant the full value would go to a cause I care about, with no tax hit."

He updated his beneficiary designation form and named the nonprofit as the IRA's full recipient.

"I was so impressed with my attorney's advice that I named him executor of my will!"

What is a charitable bequest?

A bequest is a gift you can make to support Missouri Baptist Foundation's mission in your will, living trust or with a codicil.

Charitable bequest video

Is a bequest right for you?

It is easy and convenient to include a bequest in your will or living trust. This link includes sample bequest language that can very easily be included in your will.

You might find it helpful to print this page and the bequest language to give this information to your attorney. If you or your attorney have any questions, please contact us.

Please note: The information above is representative of a typical donor and may or may not be an actual donor to our organization.