Legacy Giving
As an organization dedicated to the preservation of modern architecture, landscape, and design, Docomomo US relies on forward-thinking supporters to ensure these iconic American landmarks endure. Legacy giving allows you to align your personal financial goals with your commitment to the Modern Movement without necessarily affecting your current cash flow.
1. Stocks and Bonds
Preserving our shared Future with Appreciated Assets
Donating long-term appreciated securities—including stocks, bonds, and mutual fund shares—is one of the most tax-efficient ways to support Docomomo US.
- Benefits: You may receive a federal income tax charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the assets and avoid capital gains taxes that would apply if you sold them.
- How to Give: Assets can be transferred electronically from your brokerage account or through physical certificates.
- Draft Language: "I give [specific stock name/number of shares] to Docomomo_US, a New York-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, for its general purposes and mission to save modernism".
2. Retirement Assets
A Legacy Beyond Your Lifetime
Naming Docomomo_US as a beneficiary of your retirement plan (IRA, 401(k), or 403(b)) is a simple way to make a significant impact.
- Tax Efficiency: As a tax-exempt organization, Docomomo_US will receive 100% of the funds, whereas heirs could face high tax burdens on inherited retirement plans.
- Flexibility: You can designate Docomomo_US as a partial, full, or contingent beneficiary by updating your plan’s beneficiary designation form.
- QCD Option: If you are 70½ or older, you may also consider a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to satisfy required minimum distributions while lowering your taxable income.
3. Life Insurance
Transform a Policy into a Legacy
A life insurance policy that is no longer needed for its original purpose can become a powerful tool for preservation.
- Beneficiary Designation: Simply name Docomomo US as a primary or contingent beneficiary of the policy's death benefit.
- Ownership Transfer: You can also transfer ownership of a paid-up policy to Docomomo US, which may provide an immediate income tax deduction for the policy's value.
4. Real Estate
Protect Modernist Landscapes and Structures
Gifts of real property—such as modern homes, commercial buildings, or undeveloped land—directly support our advocacy efforts on behalf of threatened sites.
- Outright Gift: Donate property you have owned for more than one year to qualify for a deduction at full fair market value and avoid capital gains tax.
- Retained Life Estate: You can gift your home to Docomomo_US but continue to live in it for your lifetime, receiving an immediate tax deduction.
- Bequest: Include real estate in your will or living trust as a gift that will be realized in the future.
5. Personal Property
Preserving Modern Design History
Tangible personal property, such as original mid-century modern furniture, architectural archives, or artwork, can further our mission.
- Related Use: If the gift is used for Docomomo US’s exempt purposes (e.g., educational displays or documentation), you may be eligible for a deduction based on its fair market value.
- Consideration: Gifts of personal property are subject to review by Docomomo_US to ensure they align with our documentation and conservation goals.
6. Donor Advised Funds (DAF)
Streamlined Philanthropy
If you manage giving through a Donor Advised Fund, you can support Docomomo_US while enjoying immediate tax benefits.
- Grants: Recommend an immediate grant to Docomomo US to support current advocacy or educational programming.
- Succession: Name Docomomo US as a successor beneficiary to your DAF, ensuring that any remaining funds continue to protect modern architecture for future generations.
Ready to start the conversation?
To discuss these options or request our Federal Tax ID (EIN) and brokerage information, please contact us at info@docomomo-us.org or call (347) 688-2177. We recommend consulting your legal or financial advisor to determine the best strategy for your individual circumstances.
