About Retained Life Estates
A Retained Life Estate is a planned giving arrangement where individuals can donate their home or real property to a charitable organization while retaining the right to live in it for their lifetime.
It is ideal for homeowners who wish to make a significant charitable gift while still enjoying the property’s use and avoiding the complexities and costs associated with transferring ownership during their lifetime.
Benefits
- Potentially receive a tax deduction for the value of the charitable gift.
- Retain the right to live in the property.
- Make a significant charitable gift in support of our mission.
How it works
- Transfer ownership of the property to us, but retain the right to live in the property for the rest of your life.
- Continue responsibility for all maintenance, insurance, and property taxes on the property during your lifetime.
- If eligible, receive a tax deduction for the value of the charitable gift.
- When you pass away, we assume ownership of the property and can use it or sell it in support of our mission.
There may be some restrictions on the types of property we can accept, so please contact us before you donate.
Learn more about Retained Life Estates
Consult with a qualified estate planning attorney and a financial advisor to determine if this option is right for you.
We’re here to help you meet your goals!
 | Name: Kathy McHenry Executive Director Phone: 605-274-5030 Email: kmchenry@sdsynod.org |
As Executive Director of Lutheran Planned Giving of South Dakota, Kathy brings over 20 years of experience in financial services, public speaking, and non-profit leadership. She specializes in generational transitions and legacy planning, particularly with farm and ranch families, as well as charitable trusts and tax-advantaged donations. Her workshops make these processes easily understood and accessible to everyone.
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More ways to make an impact
Gifts in a will or trust
Donations in your will or trust are (by far) the most popular type of planned gift. Learn more, or get help starting your will (for free!).
Beneficiary designations
Gifting assets not covered by your will — like 401(k) or IRA accounts — may help your heirs avoid unwanted taxes, even if you’re below the estate tax threshold.
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.