A trust is a legal document that specifies how assets placed into it will be managed and by whom. A charitable remainder annuity trust (CRAT) is a form of a trust that is used as a financial and tax-planning tool to achieve a number of goals, while also providing an income for your lifetime. In addition to the financial and tax incentives you will receive during your lifetime, you will also have the satisfaction of knowing that, after you pass on, the Association will receive the remaining property in the trust. These funds will be used by the A.R.E./A.U./E.C.F. to further the mission and outreach of the A.R.E.

The advantages of a charitable remainder trust are many.

• You can receive an income for life and avoid capital gains taxes if you fund the trust with appreciated securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds).
  
  
• Receive an immediate charitable income tax deduction
  
  
• Lessen estate taxes, if properly planned, all while knowing that your funds will eventually help to make the world a better place.

A trust can also be funded with real estate as well. For example, you may wish to donate property but get some money back (called a bargain sale, or you may wish to donate your home now to A.R.E./A.U./E.C.F., but retain the right to live in it the rest of your life. In this way you enjoy the tax benefits while you are living.