{"id":65,"date":"2017-11-21T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2017-11-21T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.evansfs.com\/index.php\/2017\/11\/21\/charitable-giving-is-an-investment-in-yourself-and-others\/"},"modified":"2017-11-21T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2017-11-21T00:00:00","slug":"charitable-giving-is-an-investment-in-yourself-and-others","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.evansfs.com\/charitable-giving-is-an-investment-in-yourself-and-others\/","title":{"rendered":"Charitable Giving is an Investment in Yourself and Others"},"content":{"rendered":"

You may be bracing for that early December feeling \u2013 a crisp chill in the air, the tingling of bells and a mailbox overfilled with donation requests from charitable organizations. As an American, you will probably be in a giving mood as America is one of the most charitable nations, giving away over $373 billion<\/a> in 2016.<\/p>\n

The non-profit organizations that we donate to are dependent on those charitable contributions to support our favorite causes. And, while the contributions we make are for the greater good, many savvy investors understand that charitable contribution is also an investment.<\/p>\n

Why Donate?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Reasons for donating are a varied as the contributors themselves. Besides furthering the goals of a cause close to their heart, charitable giving can soften one\u2019s personal brand, be a touching tribute or legacy for a loved one, or create numerous tax advantages for investors.<\/p>\n

A charitable tax write-off sows guaranteed returns, and a lifetime of charitable giving can help with estate planning. There are several ways that a charitable contribution is an investment in one\u2019s portfolio. For example, opening a Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT) may help an investor turn non-income generating assets and properties profitable. Charitable investments may also fund life insurance<\/a>, better providing for heirs. Additionally, private foundations offer reduced estate and income taxes, a charitable bequest may reduce gift taxes and donor advised funds allow assets to grow, tax-free.<\/p>\n

How to Donate – Screening chosen charities<\/strong><\/p>\n

It\u2019s the season for giving, but beware. There is never a shortage of scandals<\/a> involving charitable foundations misusing<\/a> funds<\/a> or turning out to be outright scams<\/a>. As an investor, you want to make sure your dollar is stretched as far as possible, which means fully screening whom you choose to invest in. Luckily, there are more options now then ever for screening<\/a> the charities of your choice.<\/p>\n