Wealth Transfer Giving

Provide annual support to Bentley while ultimately transferring assets to heirs with reduced gift or estate tax costs.

A charitable lead annuity trust allows you to make a substantial gift to Bentley University now, through fixed annual payments, while ultimately passing assets to your family or other heirs — often at a reduced gift and estate tax cost. 

A charitable lead annuity trust may be right for you if: 

• You have significant assets you do not need for your own current financial security 
• You want to provide for your family or other heirs in a tax‑efficient way 
• You are seeking to reduce gift taxes, estate taxes, and probate costs 
• You want your gift to benefit Bentley University immediately, supporting students and programs today 
• You are considering a gift of $200,000 or more to support Bentley and your heirs 

This strategy can be an effective way to align your tax planning, family goals, and philanthropic priorities — creating immediate impact at Bentley while planning responsibly for the future. 

A Testamentary Charitable Remainder Trust (TCRT) is created through your will or trust and takes effect after your lifetime. It allows you to provide income to loved ones — such as children or other heirs—for a period of time, with the remainder eventually supporting Bentley University.  

Why Alumni Consider TCRTs 

• A TCRT is an effective way to balance family priorities with philanthropic goals. 

• It can help reduce estate and inheritance taxes, preserving more value for both your heirs and Bentley. 

• Many alumni appreciate that a TCRT aligns long‑term estate planning with their desire to leave a meaningful Bentley legacy.   

How the Trust Works 

• After your lifetime, assets designated in your will fund the trust. 

• The trust makes annual payments to your chosen beneficiaries — either:  

  • A fixed percentage of trust value each year (unitrust), or 

  • A fixed dollar amount (annuity trust), depending on structure. 

• When the income term ends, the remaining assets are distributed to Bentley University to support students, faculty, or areas you care about most.  

Assets Commonly Used 

• TCRTs can be funded with a wide range of assets, including:  

• Highly appreciated securities 

• Real estate 

• Retirement accounts (often especially tax‑efficient for charitable use) 

• Using retirement assets can be particularly advantageous, as they are typically subject to higher taxes when inherited by individuals.