Nontraditional Gifts

Life Insurance. Life insurance policies that no longer serve the purpose for which they were originally intended can be used to create a legacy of ministry. For example, (i) naming a ministry as a beneficiary on an existing life insurance policy; (ii) transferring ownership of a policy to a a ministry (allowing you to claim a charitable deduction); or (iii) purchasing a new policy in order to make a charitable gift.

Retirement Plans. Retirement accounts, such as IRAs, 401(k)/403(b), Keogh, can become quite sizable over time and will be included as part of your estate at your death. By designating the Idyllwild Community Church as beneficiary for your retirement account(s), you can continue ministry outreach. Here is more about IRA Direct Charitable Distributions.

Real Estate. Real estate can provide unique gift opportunities. The price of housing in California is often too expensive for a pastor and his family. You can make a gift of your property to the church to use as a parsonage or for rental income for the church to fund ministry programs. You can gift the property and still retain use of it during your lifetime. This allows you to claim a charitable deduction while retaining all the benefits of ownership.