Why do people like making planned gifts?
Planned gifts (most commonly a donation made in your will or trust) cost nothing today and allow you to make an incredible impact, which is why so many people choose to make them.
There are some other exciting but less common gifts — scroll down to learn more!
Popular gifts for the future
See what types of gifts many people choose to make. Many people make these to honor a loved one, to show what’s important in their life.
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 or trust – 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.
Popular gifts for today
Many people love these donation options because they fit with their personal circumstances and financial goals.
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.
Stocks and securities
Many people love donating stock or mutual funds because it may help them avoid paying capital gains taxes.
Donor Advised Funds
Easily recommend grants to Worcester State University for tax-efficient giving.
Qualified Charitable Distributions
Use your IRA to make tax-free gifts that benefit you and our mission.
Please let us know if you’ve already included us in your estate plans!
Letting us know is incredibly helpful to our team and helps to make sure your gift is used the way you want it to be.
Planned Giving Changes Lives
When you create a will, you protect the people who matter most to you and gain peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored. Your will can also reflect your values by supporting the causes that mean the most to you. By including a gift to Worcester State University in your will, you help shape the future—empowering students to tackle real-world challenges and drive lasting improvements for communities across the Commonwealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
Yes! Knowing in advance about your intentions is quite helpful to our staff, but you are always welcome to not share your gift.
We’ve partnered with FreeWill to help you make a will or trust at no cost to you. You can use this to complete your plans, or you may choose to use the same tools to get your affairs in order before visiting an attorney (who is likely to have a fee associated with finalizing your plans).
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.
We’re here to help you meet your goals!
Our team would be happy to speak with you in confidence about your giving goals, with no obligation.
Name: Louise Taylor
Title :Director, Gift Planning and Scholarships
Phone: 508-929-8033
Email: ltaylor1@worcester.edu
Already included us in your estate plan? Let us know