By Matt Bernstein, Chief Planned Giving Officer, Jewish National Fund-USA
If you’re in your 60s, thinking about your will and estate plan might not be at the top of your to-do list. After all, you’re still building your legacy, enjoying life, and looking toward the future. But when it comes to planning for the next generation—and making a lasting impact—one of the biggest misconceptions I hear is this:
"I’d love to leave something to charity, but I just don’t have the extra money."
Here’s the truth: philanthropy in your estate planning isn’t just about cash. In fact, many of the most transformative gifts we receive at Jewish National Fund don’t come from checking accounts—they come from assets people have built over a lifetime.
Rethinking What You Can Give
More and more people are including charitable organizations in their wills by donating:
- Real estate – That second home, investment property, or even a piece of land can create a lasting legacy.
- Stock and securities – Appreciated stocks offer an opportunity to make a larger gift than you might have thought possible while avoiding hefty capital gains taxes.
- Retirement accounts – Did you know that passing an IRA or 401(k) to your heirs can result in a significant tax burden? But if designated to a charity like Jewish National Fund, that burden disappears.
- Life insurance policies – A policy you no longer need can be repurposed to do extraordinary good.
- Cryptocurrency – Your digital currency, such as Bitcoin, connects cutting-edge technology with timeless values all while helping you avoid capital gains tax.
The Tax Benefits: Helping Your Loved Ones While Supporting a Cause
Many people assume that passing everything on to their children or next of kin is the best financial decision. A Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT) is a tax-savvy way to give money to a charity and provide income to yourself and your family. By donating your investment property to the trust before selling it, you would eliminate capital gains tax, receive a tax deduction, and even save on estate taxes. In addition, you can use some of the tax savings and income from this trust to purchase life insurance for your spouse and children to receive income and estate tax-free proceeds equal to the property held.
Your Legacy: A Future Worth Building
For over 120 years, Jewish National Fund-USA has built and sustained Israel’s future, ensuring a thriving homeland for generations to come. By including Jewish National Fund in your estate plans, you’re not only securing your personal legacy—you’re helping to create a stronger, more vibrant Jewish future.
It’s easier than you think to make this kind of impact, and we’re here to help you explore your options. If you’d like to learn more about how you can leave a lasting legacy, feel free to reach out to me or visit jnflegacy.org.
Because your legacy isn’t just what you leave behind—it’s the future you help build.
Matt Bernstein is Jewish National Fund-USA’s Chief Planned Giving Officer. For more information, email Matt and our Planned Giving Specialists at plannedgiving@jnf.org, call 800.562.7526, or visit jnflegacy.org.
This article is for demonstration purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or tax advice.
