In addition to making a difference in the lives of our animals, you can also benefit at tax time. An established planned gift will reflect a savings in your income and capital gains taxes. Below are some of the ways you can take advantage of this opportunity.


Naming the Peninsula SPCA in your will can be a way to leave a special gift that otherwise may not be possible during your lifetime. Bequests can be designated or unrestricted. A Special Bequest directs a charity to receive a specific piece of property. A General Bequest directs a charity to receive a specified dollar amount. A Residual Bequest designates all or a portion of what remains after expenses are paid. A Contingent Bequest goes into effect only if the primary intention cannot be met.


A Charitable Remainder Trust allows a charitable beneficiary to receive the remainder interest of your trust. It provides financial and estate planning flexibility. The donor transfers property under a trust agreement that specified how trust income and principal are to be distributed. A trust may be created to become effective during life or at death.

An Irrevocable Trust qualifies for tax consideration if it is in two forms: (1) A Charitable Remainder Unitrust provides for payment to the beneficiaries of an amount that may vary. Payment must equal a fixed percentage of the net fair-market value of the trust. The donor determines the fixed percentage; however, it must be at least 5% of the value of the trust assets. Payments are made at least annually. (2) A Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust provides a fixed payout of not less than 5% of the initial fair-market value of the gift in trust (in lieu of a net payout that may vary.)


Donors can direct their retirement funds and IRAs in support of the Peninsula SPCA. This designation often allows the donor to make a considerable legacy gift. Careful planning is necessary to use IRAs and other retirement plans to fund charitable gifts.