Planned Giving & Bequests
Create a legacy that protects Jewish communities for generations to come.
Overview
Planned giving enables donors to create enduring support for the Jewish people through thoughtful estate and financial planning. Whether through a bequest, beneficiary designation, or charitable trust, legacy gifts ensure the protection of Jewish communities across generations.
The Jewish Defense Fund works collaboratively with donors and their advisors to structure gifts that align with personal, financial, and philanthropic goals—honoring intentions while building permanent capacity for our mission.
Bequests in wills or living trusts
Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance
Charitable remainder trusts and gift annuities
Retained life estates on real property
Flexible structures that accommodate changing circumstances
Confidential consultation with our legacy giving team
Coordination with your legal, tax, and financial advisors
Tax & Estate Benefits
Planned gifts may reduce estate taxes, provide income tax deductions, and create income streams during your lifetime. Benefits vary by gift vehicle and personal circumstances. We encourage consultation with qualified advisors.
A Partnership Across Generations
Planned giving represents a partnership between your values and JDF's mission—one that extends beyond your lifetime. Include JDF in your estate plan, creating permanent resources for Jewish continuity and security.
We honor this trust by stewarding legacy gifts with the same care and discretion that donors bring to their planning. Those who notify us of their planned gifts are welcomed into the Legacy Society.
Legacy Gift Inquiry
Begin a confidential conversation
Legacy Gift Vehicles
Each planned giving vehicle offers distinct benefits. The right choice depends on your personal circumstances, financial goals, and philanthropic intentions.
Bequests
Name JDF in your will or living trust. You may designate a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or the residual after other bequests.
Beneficiary Designations
Designate JDF as a beneficiary of retirement accounts (IRA, 401k, 403b), life insurance policies, or other financial accounts.
Charitable Remainder Trusts
Receive income during your lifetime while supporting JDF with the remainder. May provide immediate tax benefits and diversification.
Charitable Gift Annuities
Make a gift and receive fixed payments for life. Rates are based on age and provide partial tax deductions.
Retained Life Estates
Donate your home while continuing to reside in it. Receive a current charitable deduction with full transfer upon your passing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Considering a Real Estate Gift?
Real estate gifts—whether given outright or through retained life estates—can be a powerful component of your legacy plan. Learn how property can support your philanthropic intentions.
Explore Real Estate GivingStrengthen the Permanent Endowment
Many planned gifts ultimately support JDF's permanent endowment—providing independent, mission-aligned resources for Jewish continuity across generations.
Learn About the Endowment