Planned Giving

Are you looking to leave a charitable gift in your Will to advance the ministries, outreach programs, and good works of your parish and/or our diocese? While taxes are likely the last thing on your mind, Canada has some of the most generous tax incentives for charitable giving in the world — and once you make the decision to leave a gift in your Will, your financial advisor can help you take full advantage of them.

1. Share your intentions. Start by talking with your financial advisor about why you want to leave a gift, what impact you want it to have, and its approximate size.
2. Narrow in on your numbers. Work with your advisor to estimate the future value of your estate and how much you would like to leave to your loved ones versus your parish and/or diocese.
3. Explore your options. Your estate is likely to receive a significant income tax bill when you pass; a charitable gift in your Will results in a donation receipt that can significantly reduce taxes owed.

• A gift of cash — a specific dollar amount or percentage of the net residue of your estate, known as a ‘bequest’ and the most common way to leave a gift.
• A gift of securities — transferring publicly listed securities can offer significant tax advantages, including elimination of capital gains tax.
• Registered funds like RRSPs, RRIFs, or TFSAs — naming your parish and/or diocese as beneficiary is one of the simplest and most flexible ways to give.
• A gift of life insurance — name your parish and/or diocese as beneficiary, or transfer ownership of an existing policy for a donation receipt today.

These are just some of the opportunities to consider — speak to your advisor about how best to maximize your giving, and get in touch with your parish and/or diocesan office to discuss how you’d like your future gift to take shape.