Charitable Lead Annuity Trust (CLAT)

Make fixed charitable donations for a set period, then pass remaining assets to heirs tax-efficiently

How It Works

1

Work with an attorney to establish an irrevocable trust that pays a fixed annuity to your chosen charities

2

Transfer an appreciated position — stock, private shares, or crypto — into the trust and receive a gift/estate tax deduction

3

The trust makes annual charitable payments for a specified term (typically 10–20 years)

4

At the end of the term, remaining trust assets (including all growth) pass to your heirs with reduced or zero gift tax

Key Benefits

Charitable Impact

Provide predictable, meaningful annual funding to the causes and organizations you care about most

Tax Deduction

Receive an immediate gift or estate tax deduction based on the present value of the charitable annuity stream

Wealth Transfer

Pass all remaining trust assets and growth above the IRS Section 7520 rate to your heirs gift-tax free

Who This Is For

Holders of appreciated assets with $3M+ who want to combine charitable giving with estate planning. Ideal for those expecting significant asset appreciation who want to transfer wealth to heirs while supporting charities during the trust term.

By The Numbers

30-50%

Immediate Deduction

$3M

Minimum Position

15 years

Typical Term

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