There are many ways of giving to FAHC.  Most provide significant benefits to the donor in addition to the philanthropic reward.  Below are listed brief descriptions of various planned and deferred giving methods.  You may wish to seek counsel of your lawyer or tax advisor in the matter of gifts and estate planning.  Meanwhile, we are ready to assist you should you need our help.

GIFTS OF CASH
The simplest way to make a gift is cash.  It entitles you to a current charitable income tax deduction for the amount given of up to 50% of your adjusted gross income. 

GIFTS OF LIIFE INSURANCE
A life insurance policy which is no longer needed for family protection can be assigned to the FAHC as owner or you could buy a new policy with the FAHC as the permanent beneficiary on which premiums are deductible.

GIFTS OF REAL ESTATE AND RESIDENCE
Use of the full current market value of a personal residence or farm can enable the donor to realize impressive tax benefits.  The donor can arrange to make this gift and retain  use of the property until death or death of beneficiary.  This will reduce the taxable estate while providing current tax savings.  The charitable deduction will equal market value less the value or the retained rights of use.  Donations of other types of land or property are also welcome gifts.

GIFTS OF BEQUEST
A good way to remember the FAHC is to include a gift in your will.  A bequest of any size is welcome and ensures continuing growth.  The bequest will reduce the size of the taxable portion of the estate and the size of the federal tax liability.  Bequests should be made to Franco-American Heritage Center.

GIFTS OF PERSONAL PROPERTY
Assets such as stamp and coin collections, gems and jewelry, artwork, rare books, yachts, antique furniture and similar collectibles of value can subject the donor to formidable income taxes if sold during his or her lifetime.  If the donor chooses to give the property to FAHC in the form of a bequest under terms of his/her will, he/she will avoid income and estate taxes in the transfer of such property.

GIFTS OF APPRECIATED SECURITIES
Most contributions of long-term appreciated securities, including closely held stock in family business, eleiminates the payment of capital gains tax on a lifetime sale of the securities.  Gifts of appreciated securities also entitle you to a charitable tax deduction which is usually equal to the fair market value at the time of the gift.  We recommend that you consult with your own advisors to determine the specific income tax advantages that are available to you.

CONTACT
Kim Brown 207-783-1585
kbrown@francoamericanheritage.org