Gift and estate planning

By leaving a gift in your will or through planned giving, you create a legacy of compassion and empowerment for those in need.

Explore the 3 avenues for planned giving: Publicly Traded Securities, Wills, and Life Insurance

Publicly Traded SecuritiesWillsLife Insurance

Publicly traded securities

A charitable gift of publicly traded securities is a donation made to Windmill in the form of stocks, bonds, or mutual fund units that are traded on public stock exchanges.

How it works

Identifying securities

Identify the publicly traded securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds that you wish to donate.

Transfer to Windmill

The securities are transferred directly to Windmill. This is done electronically through a brokerage account.

Valuation

The securities are valued based on their fair market value on the date of the transfer. This value determines the amount of the charitable deduction for tax purposes.

Benefits of donating publicly traded securities

Tax benefits*
  • Capital gains tax: One of the significant benefits is the potential to avoid capital gains tax. When you donate appreciated securities, you typically receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the securities while not incurring capital gains tax on the appreciation.
  • Income tax deduction: You can claim an income tax deduction for the fair market value of the donated securities, subject to certain limitations and depending on your tax situation. This can reduce your taxable income for the year in which the donation is made.
Simplicity and convenience
  • No liquidation required: Donating securities eliminates the need to sell them first and then donate the cash. This can save you time and effort and avoid transaction costs associated with selling assets.
  • Efficient transfer: Transferring securities to Windmill can be done electronically and is typically a straightforward process through a brokerage or financial institution.
Potential for increased giving

  • Leverage appreciation: By donating appreciated securities, you may be able to make a larger charitable contribution than you would with an equivalent cash donation due to the avoidance of capital gains tax.

* It is important to note that tax laws and regulations can vary by jurisdiction, and the specific tax benefits may depend on individual circumstances. Consult with your financial or tax advisor  when considering a charitable gift of publicly traded securities to ensure that you maximize the potential tax advantages and align your charitable giving with your financial goals

Download the form for instructions required to donate publicly traded securities to Windmill Microlending

Wills

A charitable gift in your will, known as a 'bequest,' designates a portion of your assets to be donated to a charitable organization upon your passing. This meaningful gesture supports causes you care about, leaving a lasting impact while honouring your wishes for your family and loved ones.

How it works

Designation

In your will, you specify supporting Windmill and the amount or percentage of your estate that you want to donate to them.

Types of bequests
  • Specific bequest: You designate a specific amount of money or assets to be given to Windmill.
  • Residuary bequest: You designate a percentage or the remainder of your estate after all other expenses and specific bequests have been settled.
  • Contingent bequest: You designate a charitable gift to Windmill to occur only under specific conditions, such as if other beneficiaries predecease you.
Charitable beneficiary

You identify Windmill as the charity that will receive your gift. As Windmill is recognized as a registered charity you will be eligible to receive tax benefits associated with your bequest.

Executor

Your executor (the person responsible for carrying out your will) will work with Windmill to ensure that your wishes are fulfilled according to your will's terms.

Benefits of leaving a gift in your will

Philanthropic impact

It enables you to make a lasting contribution to Windmill, helping us continue our mission and create a positive impact on society.

Tax benefits

In many jurisdictions, charitable bequests are tax-deductible, which can reduce the overall estate tax liability. This means that your estate may owe less in taxes, leaving more for your beneficiaries.

Legacy and recognition

It provides an opportunity to leave a legacy that reflects your values, interests, and commitment to making a difference in the world. Your contribution can be a lasting testament to your generosity and philanthropic spirit.

Flexible and reversible   

Your bequest can be modified or revoked during your lifetime if your circumstances or priorities change. It is not irrevocable, providing you with flexibility.

Life insurance

Consider designating Windmill as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy for a charitable gift.
This profound gesture will transform lives for years to come.

How it works

Policy selection

Select a life insurance policy, either an existing policy or a new one, with the intent of benefiting Windmill.

Naming Windmill as a beneficiary

Designate Windmill as the beneficiary of the life insurance policy. This can be done by completing the appropriate beneficiary designation forms provided by the insurance company.

Payment of premiums

You continue to pay the premiums on the life insurance policy to keep it current. These premium payments are considered charitable contributions and may be tax-deductible, depending on your jurisdiction and specific tax laws.

Proceeds

When the policyholder passes away, the benefit of the life insurance policy is paid directly to Windmill. This provides Windmill with a substantial gift.

Benefits of a charitable gift of life insurance

Large impact with smaller premiums
  • Affordable giving: Make a significant gift to Windmill with manageable premium payments compared to the size of the benefit.
Tax benefits
  • Charitable deductions: Depending on jurisdiction, they may be eligible for tax deductions on the premiums paid during their lifetime, providing immediate tax savings.
  • Estate tax benefits: In some cases, the life insurance proceeds may not be subject to estate taxes, which can preserve more of the estate for the donor's heirs and Windmill.
Simplicity
  • Ease of giving: A charitable gift of life insurance with Windmill is relatively straightforward to set up and manage.
Personal legacy
  • Leave a lasting impact: You can create a lasting legacy by supporting Windmill and its mission to empower skilled immigrants and refugees.
Protection for loved ones
  • Financial security for beneficiaries: You can provide for family and loved ones with the insurance proceeds, knowing that your charitable giving to Windmill is also accounted for.

*It is essential to work with a financial advisor or attorney experienced in estate planning and life insurance to set up a charitable gift of life insurance with Windmill properly. This ensures that the donation aligns with your objectives and maximizes the potential tax benefits while meeting all legal and regulatory requirements.

Get in touch with us to discuss your gift and estate planning

Windmill Microlending is a registered Canadian charity

Full Legal Name

Windmill Microlending

Registration Number

862367182RR0001

Address

Suite 709, 7015 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2H 2K6

Disclaimer

The information on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult with qualified financial and legal professionals to ensure that your specific needs, objectives, and wishes align with your individual financial and legal circumstances. Estate planning and charitable giving can be complex and require expertise. Seeking professional guidance is crucial to protect your interests and ensure effective plan execution.