Click on a question to the left to see the answer in
this space.
What do I want to accomplish with my philanthropy?
Before you set about making a gift, first think about the results you want to achieve. Perhaps you want to provide students in need with the same educational opportunities you received. Or maybe you are interested in helping scientists reach the next great breakthroughs in basic research, technology, or medicine that will make life better for citizens around the globe. Perhaps it is simply important to you to give back to an institution that had a profound impact on your life, or to involve your family in a charitable cause that they can nourish together for generations to come. Planned giving can help fulfill all of these objectives.
Why do I give?
Donors who provide for Harvard often do so because they are inspired by the University’s
influence on their own lives or the lives of others.
"I describe my motivation to give back to Harvard
as an interest on a debt that I can never repay."
-- Franklin D. Thompson, Jr. AB ’55
What do I care about?
When you consider your legacy, it is important to reflect on what is most important to you and what has made your own life successful. Is it the relationships you've formed? The education you've received? What values and advancements do you want to perpetuate for the next generation?
How can I provide income for myself and someone else?
As we grow older, many of us are responsible for the financial security of a spouse or even a parent. Planned giving arrangements can be designed to provide a reliable income not just for yourself, but also for a loved one.
What are my income objectives?
Perhaps you are interested in increasing your annual income. Or, maybe you are more interested in reducing taxable income. Both of these objectives can be fulfilled through a planned gift.
What annual income do I need to live comfortably?
As you consider your philanthropy, take into consideration your family's annual income needs. This can help you determine what type of gift will make the most sense.
What is my next big life change?
Our priorities change at each stage in our lives. For many teenagers, the biggest priority is obtaining a driver's license. When we have children, the priorities shift to providing for our families and saving for college. When we enter retirement, we need to think about ensuring that we have adequate health care and a steady, secure income. Planned giving fits into each life stage -- consider talking with our experts about strategies that fit your circumstances.
Are my family and heirs sufficiently provided for?
This is a question to consider carefully. Some individuals feel they have adequately provided for their families already. Some do so through their wills and estates. Others have yet to think about this question.
How are my resources currently allocated?
There are three basic beneficiaries of your estate: your heirs, the IRS, and the institutions and causes that matter to you.
What is the current percentage of the distribution?
Heirs_____%
IRS_____%
Philanthropy____%
What would you like it to be?
Heirs_____%
IRS_____%
Philanthropy____%
Am I aware of some techniques to modify these percentages to
more closely resemble my goals?
Contact our planned giving experts at Harvard to help
you further understand the benefits of planned giving.
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You and your family may want to think about some fundamental questions
before making a planned gift. Some examples are below.
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All rights reserved.
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Planned Giving Basics 
