Almost any arrangement that provides for a death beneficiary can be made payable to Volunteers of America. For example, you can make us the beneficiary of IRAs, retirement accounts, commercial annuities or deferred compensation and save both income taxes and estate taxes. Other ideas:

Financial Accounts

People who have financial accounts at banks, savings and loan associations and credit unions generally may direct that their deposits (checking, savings, share accounts, certificates of deposit) be paid on death to a particular individual – or to Volunteers of America. The designation can be revoked any time prior to death and in no way affects the depositor’s control over the funds in the account. Consult the manager of your account for details on how these gifts can be arranged.

Brokerage Accounts

If you have stocks, bonds or mutual fund shares in brokerage accounts, it is possible to name Volunteers of America as a “TOD” (transfer on death) beneficiary. You would maintain full control over the account during your life.

Life Insurance

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to include Volunteers of America in your estate plans is through life insurance. For example, you might make us the beneficiary or alternative beneficiary of an old policy that is no longer needed for family security. Simply ask the insurance company for the forms necessary to change the beneficiary or to transfer ownership in the policy to our name.

Revocable Living Trusts

Many people who have living trusts don’t realize that it’s also possible to make gifts to Volunteers of America through their trusts. During the life of the donor, the trustee can be directed to pay a portion of the income to us each year, giving the donor an income tax charitable deduction. A gift to Volunteers of America at the donor’s death entitles the estate to a charitable deduction.