Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create income with my gift?
I am unable to make a current gift, but I'd still like to support Willamette University in the future. Any ideas?
What asset should I use to make my gift?
Can I direct how Willamette University will use my gift?
How will Willamette University recognize my gift?
Why should I consider a gift to Willamette University?

1. Can I create income with my gift?

Yes! Willamette University has many plans for Gifts That Pay You Income. You can also provide income for a child, a grandchild, a parent, or a friend. That income can increase cash flow now and/or during retirement, pay for a college education, provide income for aging parents, or perhaps assist a loved one with special needs. You can also provide income to Willamette University by using a Charitable Lead Trust.

2. I am unable to make a current gift, but I'd still like to support Willamette University in the future. Any ideas?

An easy and low-cost way to make a gift to Willamette University is to include us in your will or revocable trust. Gifts by Will are a major source of endowment support at Willamette University. Each individual legacy contributes to our financial strength and ability to meet the needs of our students and their families. If you have not already done so, please consider putting Willamette University in your will or revocable trust. See our Bequest Language page for samples of how to do this. You can also designate Willamette University the beneficiary of Life Insurance, annuities, or Retirement-Plan Benefits.

3. What asset should I use to make my gift?

While cash or a check is a simple way to make a gift, you might want to consider the following:

Gift Type	Possible Benefits
Cash	Current income-tax deduction Generate income
Appreciated securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Current income-tax deduction Generate income
Transfer of residential, commercial, or undeveloped real estate	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income Relief from management
Donate an interest in closely held or family business stock	Reduce the cost of passing the business to heirs Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income
Give us tangible personal property like art, books, or collectibles	An income-tax charitable deduction
Make Willamette University the owner and beneficiary of life insurance or annuities	Income- and estate-tax savings

4. Can I direct how Willamette University will use my gift?

Most often the answer to this is “yes”!! Many donors direct that their gifts be used to fund programs or remember a loved one. Please be sure to discuss this when you make your gift.

5. How will Willamette University recognize my gift?

If your gift is a bequest commitment, or through life insurance, life-income plans, or lead trusts, you will become a permanent member of Willamette University’s R.A. Booth Society. Of course, we will also honor any requests for gifts to be anonymous.

6. Why should I consider a gift to Willamette University?

Gifts are made for many different reasons. Often gifts are made:

To express gratitude for the education you received.
To honor a loved one.
To ensure Willamette University will remain a vibrant and strong place for today’s future students.
To help Willamette University provide the very best education to our students, regardless of their finances.
To celebrate a special occasion.

Please contact the Gift Planning Office for more information.

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