Planned Giving FAQ

​​​​Planned gifts offer a unique opportunity to leave a legacy that reflects your values, ensuring future generations can enjoy and benefit from conserved land, healthy ecosystems, and public recreational spaces. They can also provide financial benefits such as tax savings or income for life.

​While it’s always helpful to consult with a lawyer or financial advisor when making any changes to your estate plan, many types of planned gifts, such as updating beneficiary designations on retirement accounts or life insurance policies, can be completed without legal assistance. However, for gifts like bequests or charitable trusts, we recommend working with a professional. We’re happy to help you find an advisor. Contact Rachel Horgan, Director of Development & Community Engagement, at 978-768-7241 ext. 122 for assistance.

There are many options for planned giving, including:

• Bequests in your will or trust
• Charitable Gift Annuities
• Charitable Remainder Trusts
• Retirement Assets (IRA, 401(k))
• Life Insurance Policies
• Real Estate or Land Donations

You can include a simple bequest by adding a clause to your will or trust. For example: “I give [specific amount or percentage] to Essex County Greenbelt Association, a nonprofit organization, to support land conservation efforts.

​​​​While it’s not required, we encourage you to let us know so we can ensure your gift is set up according to your wishes and recognize your generosity. Sharing your plans also helps us include you in our Land & Legacy Giving Circle if you’d like to be acknowledged.

​​​​​Yes! Donating land is one of the most impactful ways to ensure its protection in perpetuity. You can donate land outright, place a Conservation Restriction (CR) on your property, or arrange for its future transfer through your estate. If you have questions, please contact Vanessa Johnson-Hall, Director of Land Conservation, at 978-768-7241 ext. 116.

Your planned gift will support our ongoing efforts to protect critical habitats, conserve scenic landscapes, and provide access to nature for public enjoyment. We can also honor any specific instructions you may have regarding the use of your gift.