Retirement assets like IRAs and 401(k)s can be among the most tax-efficient assets to leave to charity, helping maximize your impact while preserving other assets for loved ones.
Why beneficiary designations are so powerful
Assets not included in your will are called non-probate assets. Examples are 401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance policies, and other accounts. Designating Rutgers University as a beneficiary can have a big impact and may avoid unwanted taxes for your heirs.
Charitable benefits
Common gifted assets for beneficiaries
- IRA
- 401(k)
- Life insurance
- Joint real estate
- Joint bank accounts
- Joint property ownership
Designate Rutgers as a beneficiary of one or more of your accounts.
We have partnered with FreeWill to offer this online platform that will walk you through the process of setting up your beneficiaries. These gifts have a big impact and can often prevent unwanted taxation.
Create a Lasting Impact at Rutgers
At Rutgers, our commitment to academic excellence, building community, and advancing the common good shapes everything we do. A gift in your will or trust helps ensure these enduring values continue to guide the University for generations to come, empowering future students, strengthening communities, and creating a brighter future for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
A non-probate asset is an account or other asset that passes outside of your will. Common examples include retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and certain bank and investment accounts.
IRAs and 401(k)s are among the most common non-probate assets used for charitable giving. Because retirement accounts are often subject to income taxes when inherited, many donors choose to leave these assets to charity while preserving other assets for loved ones.
Yes! Even if you have a will in place you still need to designate beneficiaries for your non-probate assets.
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
No. You can make these easily and at no cost to you.
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your beneficiary designations.
Contact Us
Our team is available to discuss your philanthropic goals and explore giving options that align with your values, family, and financial priorities.
Already included us in your estate plan? Let us know.
More ways to make an impact
Gifts in a will or trust
These are the most common type of planned gift. Learn more or get started with a free online will or trust tool.
Popular tax-smart gifts
Many donors choose to give non-cash assets because they may provide tax advantages while maximizing charitable impact.
Gifts that pay you back
Give assets while providing yourself or others with income for a period of time or distributions at a later date.