Incorporate Charitable Gift Planning Into Your Estate Plan

Last updated on April 9, 2025

Integrating charitable gifts into your estate plan not only benefits causes that are meaningful to you but can also provide significant tax advantages and contribute to a lasting legacy. At the Law Offices of Berge & Berge, we understand the profound impact that strategic charitable giving can have on both your estate and the community. Our lawyers in San Jose handle charitable gift planning and other aspects of estate planning throughout the South Bay area.

We are uniquely qualified to address the complexities of charitable gifting strategies for large estates. Our lead attorney, James Berge, has over 25 years of experience in estate law. His board certification in estate planning, trust and probate law* demonstrates the depth of his knowledge in these niche areas. He also holds a certification in public accounting (inactive) and an advanced degree in tax law. These credentials position our team to address the many complexities of comprehensive estate planning strategies such as charitable giving.

The Benefits Of Charitable Gift Planning

Charitable gifting can offer many benefits for your estate. It can significantly reduce your tax burden for both income and estate taxes. It can be structured in a way that still provides for you and your loved ones, with flexible terms tailored to your unique goals. And it can help you create a meaningful legacy rooted in your values and commitment to the causes you care about

Charitable Giving Tools

Several tools can facilitate your charitable giving, each with unique benefits. Examples include:

• Charitable gift annuities: Provide fixed payments to you or your designated beneficiaries for life, with the remainder going to a charitable organization (or organizations) of your choosing
• Charitable lead trusts: Givee a fixed amount to a charity for a set number of years, with the remaining assets eventually transferring to your beneficiaries
• Charitable remainder trusts: Receive income for life or a set period, with the remainder going to the charity.
• Donor-advised funds: A flexible way to manage charitable donations, allowing you to make contributions and recommend grants over time

Our lawyers can advise you on each of these tools to help you make an informed decision.

*Through the California Board of Legal Specialization