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Legacy Giving

Asset-Based Giving

Consider these easy ways to make an impact beyond your will.

Bank Accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CD)

A bank account or CD can provide immediate support to Equest upon your passing by establishing a payable on death (POD)* designation and naming the organization as the beneficiary. This process is straightforward; consult with your bank representative for guidance.

With a POD designation, you retain full ownership and control of the funds during your lifetime. You can change beneficiaries, withdraw funds, or close the account if circumstances change.

Brokerage and Investment Accounts

Transfer on death (TOD)* designations function similarly to POD but apply to brokerage and investment accounts. You can designate beneficiaries for all or a portion of your account assets.

*State laws govern payable on death accounts and transfer on death accounts. Please consult with your bank representative or investment advisor if you are considering these gifts.

Retirement Accounts

While IRAs and 401(k) plans are excellent for accumulating retirement savings, they are often less efficient for passing wealth to heirs due to income tax implications. Distributions to individual beneficiaries are taxed as ordinary income. However, as a tax-exempt entity, Equest receives the full designated amount without incurring taxes. This makes retirement accounts a highly efficient and simple way to leave a charitable legacy at Equest.

Life Insurance

Life insurance can be a powerful tool for making a substantial charitable gift, exceeding what you might otherwise be able to provide.

Options:

  • Designate Equest as the beneficiary for all or a portion of the proceeds from a life insurance policy no longer needed for family security.
  • Donate a fully paid policy during your lifetime, which may qualify for a charitable tax deduction if you itemize. The deduction amount is typically close to the policy’s cash surrender value.
  • Subject to state regulations, acquire a new life insurance policy naming Equest as the beneficiary or a joint beneficiary.

Real Estate

We accept various property types, from residential to commercial and undeveloped land. You can easily transfer the property through a direct deed or by including a provision in your will or trust. Plus, you may enjoy tax benefits and eliminate the burdens of property ownership.

Tangible Personal Property

Equest accepts donations of many types of valuable personal property, including antiques, collections, artwork, vehicles, and boats either now or in your estate plans. Please contact our staff to ensure the feasibility of your donation.

Next Steps

  1. Connect with Us
    For more information about making an estate gift, please contact Malcolm Hodge, Senior Director of Advancement at (972) 412.1099 ext. 227 or email giving@equest.org.
  2. Consult Your Advisor
    We recommend speaking with your financial or legal advisor to determine the best giving option for your situation.
  3. Notify Us of Your Gift
    If you’ve included Equest in your estate plans, please let us know by completing our Gift Notification Form. This helps us honor your intentions and welcome you into our legacy giving community.

4. Use Our Legal Information
When including Equest in your plans, please use our official legal name and federal tax ID:

LEGAL NAME:
Equest

ADDRESS:
811 Pemberton Hill Road
Building 4
Dallas, Texas 75217

FEDERAL TAX ID NO:
75-1823701