Strategies for giving

Estate gifts and how to give them

The following are some of the options available to make a special gift to Wasatch Presbyterian Church. If you would like more information on these or other options, please contact one of the members of the ministry team. We are here to help you.

Special Gifts Ministry Team

  • Russell Fericks (801) 485-7687
  • Mary Lou McCaa (801) 583-9535
  • Rod Rougelot (801) 582-5482
  • Temp Riekhof (801) 483-3144
  • Rev. David Henry (801) 487-7576

Estate Options

  • Give a particular amount. Select an amount you would like to give ($10,000, $100,000, etc.) and stipulate this amount in your will. It is important to remember that specific dollar amounts take precedence over the percentage allotments. Therefore, these gifts are given first and the rest of the estate is divided among those receiving a percentage of the estate. These may be direct or endowed gifts.
  • Give a percentage of your estate. Simply select a percentage amount and include it in the overall calculations. Some people choose the traditional tithe, 10 percent, as a stating point. Another way is to begin with the percentage of your present income you give each year (say, 7 percent) and use that percentage as the amount. Some just select a percentage, like 20 percent, and designate that for the church. These may be either direct or endowed gifts.
  • Endow your pledge. This is an easy way to insure that your support of the church will continue for the foreseeable future. Begin with the amount you presently give each year. To continue this amount in your estate, assume a 4-5 percent return, and it will bring amazing results. For example, an endowment of $100,000 will provide $4000-$5000 each and every year, forever!
  • Gift a ministry. If there is an area of church ministry you particularly value (music, youth, facilities, etc.), you may leave an amount or percentage from your estate to support that area. These may be direct or endowed gifts.
  • My house for God’s house. With this option, simply leave your home, or a percentage of its value, to the church. The proceeds from its sale will continue the ministry for generations to come. These may be either direct or endowed gifts. There are even ways to give your house to the church now, receiving tax benefits, and still live in the house.
  • Life insurance policies.  Some people choose to designate the church as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy. Be sure to tell the church so that the necessary papers will be filed. These may be direct or endowed gifts.

Some questions to think about…

Do I give direct or endowed?
A direct gift provides immediate funds to support a designated ministry or mission, while an endowed gift ensures reliable income forever. Both options are appropriate and very helpful. It simply comes down to personal preference.
Do I begin now or later?
Many people believe that they must die before they can begin an endowment. While most endowments are funded through bequests from estates, many are also begun while the person is still alive and able to see it serve. There are many advantages to establishing your endowed fund now.
Do I tithe it now?
This option allows those who may not be able to provide the entire amount now to begin now. Giving a tithe of your intention now will allow you, in many cases, to establish the fund now and complete it with your estate.
Do I need income now?
If you want to make a gift, but need income now, there are several ways to make a future gift and receive present income. This is particularly helpful if you have highly appreciated stock that provides limited dividends.
Do I designate?
When making an endowed gift, please remember that this gift will continue to contribute forever. What will be the church’s needs in 100 years? While we encourage people to support ministries and missions that are valuable to them, we also suggest that you make your designations as general as possible. A designation of “wherever it’s needed most” will assist future generations to continue the ministry we have begun.
Do I tell anyone?
If you have decided to include the church in your estate plans, using these or other methods, we suggest that you let the church know of your plans. This simply makes the church aware of your plans and allows the church to work with you to ensure that your gifts are used in the ways you desire. You may also discover alternatives that enhance your present situation. We encourage you to talk with a Special Gifts Ministry Team member.