Charitable Remainder and Charitable Lead Trusts

A charitable remainder trust is a "split-interest trust" that pays income to the donor or other beneficiaries for life or for a specific term of years. At the end of the term, the remaining assets pass to one or more charitable beneficiaries, like Emerson College. Charitable remainder trusts pay out a minimum of 5%, and can provide income tax, capital gains tax, and estate tax savings.

A charitable lead trust is a trust that pays income initially to one or more designated charities. At the end of the term, the remaining assets typically pass to heirs or other designated individuals. Charitable lead trusts allow donors to pass assets on to heirs with tax savings, while creating a philanthropic legacy at Emerson.

If you have established or plan to establish a charitable remainder trust or charitable lead trust, there may be an opportunity to name Emerson as a beneficiary, if the trust document permits this. Please contact us with questions.