by T. Christian Rollins, MBA, CFRE
When people think about charitable giving, they often picture writing a check, attending an event, or perhaps including a nonprofit in their will. But there’s another option — one that is both simple and surprisingly powerful — that many people overlook: making a gift through a beneficiary designation.
It’s one of the easiest ways to support the causes you care about, including Samaritan, while also maintaining flexibility and control over your assets.
What Is a Beneficiary Designation?
Certain financial accounts allow you to name a beneficiary; an individual or organization who will receive the asset upon your passing. These commonly include:
- Retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s
- Life insurance policies
- Donor Advised Funds
- Some bank and investment accounts (via “payable on death” or “transfer on death” designations)
By simply naming Samaritan as a full or partial beneficiary, you can make a meaningful future gift, without changing your will or other documents.
Why Consider This Approach?
There are several reasons why beneficiary designations are so appealing:
It’s simple.
In most cases, you can complete the change yourself with a short form; often online, and through your account provider.
It’s flexible.
You can update your beneficiary at any time, as your circumstances or priorities change.
It can be tax-wise.
Some assets, particularly retirement accounts, can be heavily taxed when left to individuals. By directing a portion to a nonprofit like Samaritan, you may reduce the tax burden on your heirs, while maximizing the impact of your gift.
It complements your will.
Beneficiary designations operate independently of your will, making them a useful tool alongside your broader estate plan.
A Thoughtful Way to Give
Many of the families we serve have experienced firsthand the compassion and care that define Samaritan’s mission. A beneficiary designation offers a way to extend that care to others; ensuring that future patients and families receive the same support, dignity, and comfort.
And importantly, this kind of gift does not affect your financial security during your lifetime. You retain full access to your assets, giving you peace of mind while planning for the future.
Getting Started
If you’re considering this option, here are a few simple steps:
- Contact your financial institution or log into your account portal.
- Request or locate the beneficiary designation form.
- Decide what percentage (or specific amount) you’d like to designate.
- Include Samaritan as a beneficiary using our legal name and information.
If you’ve already included Samaritan in your plans, we would be honored to know. It allows us to thank you appropriately and ensure your intentions are understood.
A Legacy That Reflects Your Values
Legacy giving is not just about assets — it’s about values. It’s a reflection of what matters most to you and the impact you want to have beyond your lifetime.
A beneficiary designation is a simple step, but it can create a lasting difference for the patients and families who rely on Samaritan’s care.
Please let us know if you have made such a provision, so that we may recognize your generous intent with eternal membership in The Legacy Society.
Samaritan Healthcare & Hospice, Inc. is a not-for-profit, a 501(c)(3) organization, and a 509(a)(2) public charity (EIN: 22-2344036), headquartered at 3906 Church Road in Mount Laurel, NJ 08054.