Estate planning usually comes down to a few simple goals: caring for loved ones, supporting meaningful causes, and making the process as smooth as possible. That’s exactly where a donor advised fund (DAF) at CCF can help.
A DAF is a powerful giving tool that combines simplicity, flexibility, and legacy. It allows you to contribute assets like cash, appreciated stock, or real estate, and benefit from an immediate tax deduction. Then, you recommend grants to your favorite missions and ministries over time — on your timeline. Beyond making it more convenient and tax-efficient to give during your lifetime, a DAF can play a key role in your estate plan.
Why Include a Donor Advised Fund in Your Estate Plan?
Simplify the Process for Your Executor. Instead of naming several nonprofit beneficiaries in your will, you can name just one: your DAF. Your executor or trustee needs to make only one distribution. Your fund takes care of the rest, according to your wishes.
Reduce Probate Hassles. Assets designated to your DAF — through your will, living trust, or as a beneficiary on a retirement account — bypass probate altogether. That means faster, cleaner distribution and less stress for your loved ones.
Keep Your Legacy Flexible. Pointing your will to your DAF gives you flexibility. You can update your charitable preferences anytime without having to amend your will — saving time and money. Naming a successor advisor expands the available options after your passing. They can recommend final fund-closing grants in your name or your family’s name or continue making grants from the fund over time. Whatever your preference, your DAF makes it easy.
Ensure Privacy and Stewardship. You can decide if you want anonymity. Also, CCF, ensures your charitable intentions are honored with expert, faith-aligned stewardship.
How It Works
01 Open a DAF with CCF. You can name it after yourself or your family. Or you can create a name that reflects your values or the intention of the fund.
02 Name the fund in your estate plan — will, trust, or beneficiary forms.
03 Decide how you’d like the fund to be used after your passing: final distributions (resulting in the closing of the fund) or continued giving by a successor advisor.
04 Rest easy, knowing your philanthropic legacy is in good hands.
Why Choose CCF?
Because we’re more than a financial institution. We’re your partner in purposeful generosity motivated by a Catholic heart. With local knowledge, trusted stewardship, and deep roots in our local Catholic community, we’re here to guide you in experiencing the joy of giving — today and into the future.
Let’s Talk
Want to explore how a DAF could fit into your estate plan? Whether you’re just starting or refining your legacy, CCF is here to help. Call or email us today.
The information presented above by the Catholic Community Foundation of Minnesota (CCF) is general and educational in nature. CCF and its staff do not provide individualized legal or tax advice. We recommend you consult with your attorney or tax professional regarding your unique personal situation.