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Welcome to “Ask the Planned Giving Expert,” a series where we bring clarity to planned giving with straightforward insights from experienced professionals. Our series is dedicated to providing easy-to-understand, practical information for all readers, and useful tools for those who are interested in learning more. In this issue, we are joined by Karen A. Galuchie, Executive Director of IEEE Foundation, who brings 20 years of planned giving experience from her tenure, during which she has been closely involved with numerous planned gifts to benefit the Foundation. 

Q1. Do you need to be a certain age or have a certain level of wealth to consider planned giving?

Absolutely not. Planned giving is an inclusive opportunity, open to anyone who wishes to make a lasting impact, regardless of age or wealth. It is about your commitment to the cause, not the size of your wallet.

Q2. Where is a good place to begin when considering a planned gift? 

Start by reflecting on your philanthropic goals. Consulting a financial advisor or estate planner can help align your personal and charitable aspirations. For those who have already taken these initial steps and are seeking to support the IEEE Foundation specifically, our ‘2023 Giving Guide: Impact and Philanthropy’ offers detailed information on how your planned gift can make a difference.

Q3. How does planned giving benefit the donor?  

Every individual and family situation is different, but in general, planned giving offers numerous benefits for donors. These include potential tax advantages, estate planning efficiencies, and possibly continued income. It’s a win-win, supporting a cause you believe in while also benefiting your financial plan.

Q4. How does planned giving benefit the IEEE Foundation?  

Through planned giving, we translate philanthropic investments into impactful actions across our program pillars. This approach has been pivotal in supporting projects addressing accessibility challenges with technology, promoting the history of technology, and celebrating the ingenuity and innovation of the IEEE community. These gifts also allow us to honor our donors’ legacies within the professional community that they love, exemplified by the IEEE Goldsmith Legacy League. 

Q5. What would you say to someone who is hesitant about planned giving?

Considering planned giving can be difficult and often brings up thoughts about personal legacy and family. It is crucial to understand that it does not have to be a choice between supporting your family and philanthropy. With the right planning, it is entirely possible to enhance what you leave for your heirs while also contributing to a cause close to your heart. Planned giving can be a harmonious part of a comprehensive estate plan that respects both personal and charitable objectives.

Do you have a planned giving or estate planning question to ask our experts? If so, please contact Danny DeLiberato, Development Officer at 732.562.5446 or d.deliberato@ieee.org. Depending on the nature of your question, Danny will answer you directly or your question may be used in an upcoming reader mailbag Q&A with one of our guest experts.

This article is intended to provide general gift planning information. Our organization is not qualified to provide specific legal, tax or investment advice, and this publication should not be looked to or relied upon as a source for such advice. Consult with your own legal and financial advisors before making any gift.