The best gift plan for you will depend upon your unique circumstances. Although most plans are applicable no matter your age, here are some gift options our generous donors have used at different life milestones. 

When you are in the 21-54 age range, you may be busy raising your family and pursuing your career. Donors in this group have leveraged these opportunities: 

• Outright Gift of Cash – Provide immediate support for Columbia and receive the maximum income tax deduction. 
• Gift in Your Will – Include a contribution in your will or estate plan to support Columbia’s future and, if your situation changes, change your gift at any time. 
• Beneficiary Designations – Complete a simple form through your bank, retirement plan administrator, insurance company, or other financial institution and direct a contribution to be made at the end of your lifetime. 

If you are 55-69, you may be planning for or moving into retirement. In addition to the options above, these gift plans may be of interest: 

• Outright Gift of Appreciated Securities –  Avoid capital gains taxes with a gift of appreciated securities and receive the maximum income tax deduction. 
• Donor-Advised Fund – Recommend grants to Columbia through your existing donor-advised fund during and even after your lifetime. 
• Deferred Gift Annuity – Make a contribution now and, beginning at a time of your choosing, receive payments as a result.

By the time you reach age 70, you are probably easing into retirement. These gift options may resonate with you:

• Gift from Retirement Account – If you are over age 70½, make a direct transfer from your retirement account and avoid the income tax that you would have paid on a withdrawal. If you are over age 72, this contribution counts toward your RMD. 
• Beneficiary Designation or Gift of Life Insurance – If you have a life insurance policy that you purchased years ago but no longer need, either designate Columbia as a beneficiary of a fraction or all of the death benefit, or in certain circumstances you might opt to give a paid-up policy and make Columbia the policy owner and beneficiary. 
• Charitable Remainder Trust – Highly appreciated assets that provide a disappointing level of income can be a challenge because of the capital gains tax if they are sold. A charitable remainder trust allows you to receive more income, reduce or avoid the capital gains tax, and get an income tax deduction—all while making a generous gift to Columbia. 

Columbia’s gift planning staff will be happy to work with you and your advisors to craft a gift plan that meets your needs and allows you to support the next generation of promising students and distinguished faculty. Join Columbia alumni and friends in transforming teaching, research, patient care, and searching for solutions to the most challenging issues of our time.