Planned giving refers to arranging a donation to United Way which is bestowed in the future. Often, but not always, a donor gives from his or her estate.

Planned gifts often reflect a donor’s commitment to an organization, cause or issue. Anyone with assets of any size or description can make a planned gift.

You can plan to give in number of ways:

  • Bequest - in your will you leave a portion (or all) of your estate to United Way
  • Securities - a highly beneficial way of giving to United Way that can result in significant tax credits to you
  • Life insurance policies - donating a life insurance policy to United Way (even when not fully paid for) gives you an immediate tax benefit
  • Retirement savings - transform tax liabilities into a charitable gift by donating money from your retirement funds
  • Real estate - a gift of property can serve United Way in many ways
  • Charitable remainder trust - this involves transferring property into a trust, all or part of which is donated to United Way following your death
  • Residual interest gift - a contract where United Way receives future ownership of a valuable asset (generally real estate or art) but you maintain use of it for life
  • Limited partnership interests - you can donate to United Way all or part of your interests in a limited partnership.

This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal or financial advice. It is not a substitute for professional advice; United Way encourages you to seek professional legal, estate planning and/or financial advice before deciding upon your course of action.

If you are considering a planned gift of $1,000 or more, one of our Leadership or Major Donor coordinators can advise you how your gift can make a difference - both to the community and to your estate. For information, contact:

Tim Lefaivre
Ph. (403) 231-2603
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We also encourage you to consult with your tax advisor for more information on maximizing your charitable gift or visit the Canada Revenue Agency at www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/charities for more information. Canada Revenue Agency publishes official Interpretation Bulletins explaining the regulations of charitable giving; they are available at no cost from any CRA Tax Office.

This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal or financial advice. It is not a substitute for professional advice; United Way encourages you to seek professional legal, estate planning and/or financial advice before deciding upon your course of action.