Major life events mark our most important milestones. As we all continue to adjust in these uncertain times, flexibility is key. We reconsider what is most important to us, re-examine our plans, and try our best to prepare for what’s to come. If you are looking for a way to have an impact at Duke […]

In this three-part series, we’ll explore strategic gift options and introduce you to Duke alumnae who have made lasting impacts on the university through planned giving. Whether you are just starting to consider how a legacy gift can work for you, or are already working with a financial advisor or estate attorney, we are here […]

Major life events mark our most important milestones, and, let’s face it, we’re in the midst of a major life event that none of us ever expected. In times like these, flexibility can be key. We can reconsider what is most important to us, re-examine our plans, and try our best to prepare for what’s […]

Naming a public charity as the beneficiary of your retirement account can be a wonderful and tax-efficient way to make a legacy gift to the organizations that are important to you. It is relatively simple to make a gift using the beneficiary designation form provided by the financial institution that serves as the retirement plan […]

This Blueprints blog post was originally posted on September 18, 2019. The IRS has since implemented new rules regarding retirement plans and IRA required minimum distributions. The following blog post has been updated in March 2021 to reflect these new requirements. Here’s a scenario: You’re enjoying retirement, and life is good. You’re taking your annual […]

Naming Duke as a beneficiary of my will or retirement account is a complicated process. Gifts made through a will or retirement account are among the simplest, most straightforward ways to leave a lasting legacy at Duke. With only a couple of sentences in your will, you can designate a percentage of your estate (or […]

Tax incentives for philanthropic gifts to charity may have decreased under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, but creative donors are still finding ways to maximize tax savings while supporting charitable causes. Our Blueprints blog three-part series — “3 tax reform charitable giving strategies” — highlights philanthropic options in light of the latest […]

An inherited Individual Retirement Account (IRA), sometimes known as a Beneficiary IRA, refers to an account that is created to hold the IRA or employee-sponsored retirement plan assets that someone has inherited after the death of the original owner. Typically, an inherited IRA is opened by a family member or a close friend who was named […]

It’s a common misconception that planned giving is only for the extremely wealthy or older population.  That’s simply not true.  In fact, you’re never too young to begin planning for your charitable future.  If you are in your 20s or 30s, it is likely that you are beginning your career.  You may have just been […]

Women are shaping the future of philanthropy.  Yet, many do not realize the financial and economic power they hold. Anne Sherman, associate director of gift planning at Duke University, explains why gift planning can be a powerful way to provide for yourself and make a real difference at an organization, like Duke. Watch Anne’s video […]