Making a planned gift to MSU Hillel ensures that future generations of Jewish students have the resources to explore and expand their involvement with the Jewish community. Detailed information about various options are below. If you have any additional questions, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 517-332-1916.

Gifts by Bequest

A bequest can be made through a donor's will or trust and is the easiest way to make a planned gift. It can be in the form of a specific amount, percentage, or residue and can be made in honor or memory of a loved one. Using this method the donor keeps control of the assets during their lifetime and makes the gift upon death. These gifts will support the future mission of MSU Hillel.

Charitable Gift Annuities

A gift annuity is an agreement whereby the donor transfers assets, such as cash or appreciated securities, to MSU Hillel. In return, the donor receives a guaranteed payment for the rest of the donor's life. Gift annuities, which are income-producing gifts, are popular with donors because they receive a charitable income tax deduction, possible estate tax savings, a fixed payment for life, some tax-free income for a period of time, and possible capital gains tax savings.

You can also make a gift now and defer having payments made to you until a future date. This type of gift is called a deferred gift annuity. The rates are generally higher than the rates on current gift annuities depending upon the annuitant's age and the length of the deferral.

IRAs and Retirement Plans

Under certain circumstances it may be advantageous to name the MSU Hillel as the beneficiary of an Individual Retirement Account or your employer's pension plan. Doing this may benefit you and your heirs. You retain control of these funds during your lifetime. At your death, these funds, if left to Hillel qualify for a charitable deduction and, thus, may save on estate taxes.

Gift of Life Insurance

A gift of life insurance can be made through a new or existing policy by the donor designating MSU Hillel as the owner and beneficiary. The donor receives an income tax deduction for the value of the policy when the gift is made and income tax deductions for future premium payments each year.