Susan and Fred know how to work hard. And they have the rewards as a result.

Susan: "I was one of the lucky ones. It was a very tough time for me and my family, but my university was there when we needed a little help. Did it make a difference? Only in every aspect of my life!"

Fred: "We know how important help is when it is needed, and we know how difficult it is for the university to maintain their facilities, keep their equipment up-to-date, and recruit outstanding faculty."

Susan: "We benefited because they had been supported by others before us - but now we can give back. And what a joy it is to know that when we no longer need it, part of it is going to someone who does. It's awesome - we are changing lives!"

Fred: "That's why Susan and I made the decision. Not only will our trust provide income to us throughout our lifetimes, but we have peace of mind knowing that the remainder will benefit an organization that's doing really good work."

There are two different types of charitable remainder trusts.

A charitable remainder unitrust (example) is a popular way to receive tax benefits as well as a fixed annual percentage on the value of the assets in the trust. The assets are revalued annually and, if the trust value changes, the payment to the beneficiary(ies) changes.

A charitable remainder annuity trust is set up to pay a fixed rate of return based on the initial valuation at the time the property is placed in the trust. The trust assets are never revalued. Additional information on charitable remainder trusts is also available.