Planned Giving
Why is Planning My Estate so Important?
It is estimated that only 42% of Americans have a will or estate plans. Having and maintaining a will or estate plan is the only way to guarantee that your final wishes are realized by your loved ones and your charitable interests.
Planning your estate not only provides you with peace of mind, but also provides you an opportunity to leave an enduring legacy of support for First Church.
With changing patterns of wealth and tax laws, philanthropic interests and tax savings are often linked. Planned giving is the process by which your philanthropic desire is guided and shaped by financial and estate planning considerations.
Planning an estate gift is a very special way that you can leave your legacy at First Church for generations to come.
If you have already included First Church in your estate plans, thank you. Please inform the Church of your gift so that we may acknowledge your generosity.
The First Presbyterian Church 1716 Society
To recognize members and friends who have made a planned gift to First Church, we have created the 1716 Society. The name of this new society reflects the Church’s long tradition of planning and providing for the future, ever since its founding in 1716. Members of the 1716 Society will be recognized, with their permission, in First Church publications, at an annual luncheon, and with other suitable memorials.
To learn more about planned giving opportunities or to arrange to speak with a member of the Planned Giving Committee, please call the Church at (212) 675-6150.
Our Mission
The Mission of First Presbyterian Church is to provide a welcoming place of worship for all of God’s people. Education, fellowship, and outreach are designed to support this mission and to foster the spiritual growth and commitment of all church members.
You can contribute to the continued fulfillment of our mission by including First Church in your estate. Making a planned gift is a special way to support the Church, or to remember a loved one, while making a significant contribution to the future generations of members who will worship and participate in the First Presbyterian Church Community.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
First Church relies on supporters to help us continue this mission. Leaving gifts in wills and trusts, both large and small, is one of the easiest ways to support the church. In addition to your continued annual support, a bequest is a special gift made to First Church through your will that can offer several benefits.
- Charitable gifts in your will are 100 percent deductible for estate tax purposes
- A charitable bequest could reduce or eliminate estate taxes
- Supporters can often make larger gifts through their will than are possible with current income
Financial rewards are only a small part of the benefits a gift to the First Presbyterian Church in the City of New York provides. By including the Church in your estate plans, you will create a special gift that extends support past your lifetime.