A group of Youth Climate Leaders, one speaking into a microphone
© Phil Doyle

Gift Planning

Charitable Remainder Unitrust

Charitable Remainder Unitrust

Learn More About Planned Gifts with Mass Audubon

If you’re interested in supporting Mass Audubon through a charitable gift and want to get started with facts, benefits, and next steps, we’re ready to help. These downloadable resources outline the process of supporting the nature of Massachusetts through a variety of planned gift options. We look forward to hearing from you!

A charitable remainder unitrust offers maximum flexibility with regards to the investment and benefits of your gift plan.

CRUT Diagram

How It Works

  • You transfer cash, securities, or other appreciated property into a trust. The required minimum for this type of gift is $100,000.
  • The trust pays a percentage of the value of its principal, which is valued annually, to you or beneficiaries you name.
  • You may use your real estate to fund a charitable remainder unitrust (CRUT), which may be structured to provide lifetime income for you and/or others, or income for a term of years.
  • When the trust terminates, the remainder passes to Mass Audubon in support of their overall mission.

Benefits

  • Receive income for life or a term of years in return for your gift. 
  • Receive an immediate income tax deduction for a portion of your contribution.
  • Pay no up-front capital gains tax on appreciated assets you give.
  • You may be able to make additional gifts to the trust as your circumstances allow for additional income and tax benefits.