Ways to Give

While most people first think of writing a check when they make a contribution, charitable gifts can also be made with other assets. The following describes the various methods of giving. The Diocese of Metuchen can provide more detailed information about the various gift vehicles available upon request.

Cash

Those who wish to make an outright gift of cash to the campaign should make checks payable to the Diocese of Metuchen. Such gifts are tax deductible to the full extent provided by law. Pledges Pledges to the campaign are made payable over a period of three to five years. Pledges enable the donor to contribute a larger gift than would be possible to make in any one tax year. Pledge form (pdf)

Donate On-Line

Visit our Online Donation site to donate online using credit card or debit card.

Securities

Appreciated securities can provide an attractive means of giving. Through this type of gift, an individual can receive a charitable income tax deduction and avoid paying tax on the “capital gains” that would be due if the stocks were sold outright. A gift of securities can be made by transferring stock to the Diocese of Metuchen. Please call Msgr. Sylvester Cronin, Diocesan Executive Director of the Department of Stewardship and Development at 732-562-2431.

Matching Gifts

Many companies have a matching gift policy that may increase a contribution made to the Diocese of Metuchen by an employee. Usually the company’s human resources office can provide the necessary information and forms.

Planned Giving

Planned or deferred gifts represent a special type of support that benefits you, the donor, and the Diocese. Often a planned gift allows you to maximize your contribution and provide you specific income and estate tax advantages. Planned gifts may also offer you income during your lifetime. The Diocese of Metuchen can provide you with information and assistance if you are considering a planned gift.

IRA Charitable Rollover

The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 was signed into law on December 17, 2010. This bill restores the IRA Charitable Rollover for 2010 and permits its use in all of 2011. The act is retroactive to January 1, 2010, so donors who previously made 2010 IRA distributions will qualify. If you own an IRA and are over 70 ½, you may transfer up to $100,000 annually directly from your IRA to the Diocese of Metuchen towards the Catholic Campus Ministry. The transfer generates neither taxable income nor a tax deduction. The transfer may count against your unsatisfied required minimum distribution.

Life Income Gifts

One can make a gift of cash, securities, or other assets to the Diocese of Metuchen and receive both income for life and a charitable tax deduction in return. A variety of trusts and annuities facilitate such gifts. Upon the donor’s or designated beneficiary’s death, or at another prearranged time, the trust terminates and the assets are transferred to the Diocese. Bequests Individuals may make a gift a specific amount or a percentage of his or her estate to support the campaign. Life Insurance The Diocese of Metuchen may be named as the owner and beneficiary of a new policy or ownership of an existing policy may be transferred to the Diocese.

Real Estate

Real estate allows donors to both claim an income tax deduction for the value of the gift and avoid paying a capital gains tax on the appreciation of the property.

Retirement Plans

At the death of the beneficiary, the remainder of his or her retirement plan(s) is heavily taxed (at a rate of up to 91%). Such plans include 401(k) accounts, which are subject to income and excise taxes and also may be diminished by estate taxes. The bulk of the tax burden may be avoided if the remainder value of the plan is bequeathed to a non-profit organization such as the Diocese of Metuchen.