Charitable Remainder Trusts

A Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)—including a Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT)—is a flexible way to support the nonprofit Fresno Aquarium while generating income.

Here’s how it works:

You place assets (like appreciated stock, real estate, or cash) into a trust. The trust then pays you—or someone you choose—income for a set period of time or for life. After that, the remaining assets goes to the Fresno Aquarium.

• You receive income for life or a set term
• You may receive an immediate charitable tax deduction
• You can potentially reduce capital gains taxes on appreciated assets
• The remaining funds create a lasting impact

A CRUT specifically pays a fixed percentage of the trust’s value each year, so income can grow over time as the trust grows.

Real Estate and a CRUT

Highly appreciated real estate may be an excellent asset to contribute to a Charitable Remainder Unitrust. This could include farmland, rental or commercial property, undeveloped land, or even a debt-free family home that has become larger than needed after the children have grown and moved away. A properly structured CRUT may allow the property to be sold and the proceeds reinvested while providing income to the donor or other beneficiaries for life or a specified term, with the remaining trust assets ultimately supporting the Fresno Aquarium.

As always, talk with your financial advisor to see if a CRT or CRUT fits your plans and when you're ready, call Tom Lang, executive director, at 559-490-3474.