The Charitable Lead Trust
Transferring property to Eastern Michigan University and individuals you wish to benefit is not always an either/or proposition. With careful planning you may be able to arrange your transfers to accomplish more than one objective. For example, if you have assets that are appreciating, children who may want to start a business in the future, and a desire to assist Eastern Michigan University, you may wish to consider creating a charitable lead trust. Such an arrangement would allow you to benefit Eastern Michigan University until your children are ready and able to step out on their own while minimizing any potential transfer taxes.
Under this plan you irrevocably transfer assets to a trustee and provide that payments be made to us for a certain number of years (or until the end of your or another's life). Then the principal is distributed to your children, grandchildren, or other heirs. The principal passes to your heirs at greatly reduced gift- and estate-tax rates and sometimes escapes them altogether. The charitable lead trust may appeal to individuals who wish to make a gift but retain the property in their family.
There are two types of charitable lead trusts: the grantor lead trust and the more popular nongrantor lead trust, which was made famous by Mrs. Jackie Kennedy Onassis.
The discussion herein is general in nature and may not apply to all individuals. Prospective donors are urged to consult their personal tax and financial advisors concerning the specific consequences of making gifts to Eastern Michigan University. We would be pleased to discuss, in confidence, ways in which you may support Eastern Michigan University. These measures may also have an impact on your estate planning.
