The Easiest Way to Make an Impact

A GIFT IN YOUR WILL OR LIVING TRUST

A simple, flexible and versatile way to ensure your favorite programs continue for years to come is by leaving a gift to the Museum in your will or living trust.

WANT TO ADD US TO YOUR EXISTING WILL?

You don’t need to create a new will. Simply ask your attorney to prepare a codicil, a document that amends your original will. This is a common way to make minor changes.

WHAT TYPES OF GIFTS CAN I MAKE TO THE MUSEUM THROUGH MY WILL?

Cash gifts: You can gift a specific amount of money or a percentage of your total estate. This allows you the flexibility to change your mind at any time and your estate may benefit from a federal estate tax charitable deduction for the amount of the gift.

Appreciated securities: If you aren’t ready to give up these assets during your lifetime, a gift of securities in your will or trust also allows you the flexibility to change your mind at any time. You can continue to receive dividends and participate in shareholder votes, and the securities are still yours if you need them for other expenses.

HOW CAN I MAKE A GIFT TO THE MUSEUM AND TAKE CARE OF MY FAMILY?

Instead of a fixed amount, consider gifting a percentage of your estate or of specific assets. That way, gifts to loved ones and to organizations such as the Vero Beach Museum of Art remain proportional – no matter how your estate fluctuates.

Here are three simple ways to put family first while supporting the arts:

1. 1. Gift a percentage of your estate to the Vero Beach Museum of Art in your will.
   2. Leave the Vero Beach Museum of Art a percentage of your residual estate (the portion of your estate that remains after all gifts have been made and all claims of the estate are satisfied).
   3. Name the Vero Beach Museum of Art as a beneficiary of a percentage of your life insurance policy or retirement account.

I HAVE ALREADY INCLUDED THE MUSEUM IN MY WILL. WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?

THANK YOU! Your gift will secure the future of the Museum’s exhibitions, programs and outreach. We want to celebrate you and thank you for your gift. When you notify the Vero Beach Museum of Art, in writing, of your estate plans, you will become a member of the Masterpiece Legacy Society. As a member of this society, you join like-minded philanthropists in ensuring the future of the Museum’s mission. Your gift will also serve as an inspiration to others who might be considering additional, lasting ways to support the Museum and as motivation to those who share your beliefs but have yet to formalize their gift. Please complete and mail this form to Robyn Orzel, Director of Development/Associate Executive Director. Or, contact Robyn at 772-231-0707 ext.106.

CAN I DIRECT MY GIFT TO SUPPORT MY FAVORITE MUSEUM PROGRAMS?

Yes, contact Robyn at 772-231-0707 ext.106 to discuss the options available for designating your support.

I HAVEN’T CREATED A WILL YET. WHAT HAPPENS IF I DO NOT HAVE ONE?

If you die without a will, your estate will be divided according to the laws of the state where you live. The transfer of assets may very different from what you wish. Certain family members will likely receive part of your estate, but other family members, friends or charities that you may have wanted to remember may not be included.

WHEN SHOULD I REVIEW MY WILL AND MAKE CHANGES?

Life changes such as the following should trigger a review of your will:

Birth

Death

Change in marital status

Increased/decreased estate value

Move to another state

Contact your estate planning attorney to make any changes.

The information on this website is not intended as legal or tax advice. This information is intended to provide general gift planning information.  Figures cited in examples are for hypothetical purposes only and are subject to change. References to estate and income taxes include federal taxes only. State income/estate taxes or state law may impact your results. Consult with your own legal and financial advisors regarding your specific circumstances before making any gift.