Each individual who makes a planned gift and notifies the Office of Planned Giving of his or her commitment to Washington University is a Brookings Partner. For those who have yet to make a commitment, here are several ways to become a Partner:

• Bequests -- The most frequently used planned gift option is a bequest in your will. Charitable bequests are fully deductible for estate tax purposes.

• Life Income Gifts -- Easily established, trust and annuity gifts can offer you an immediate income tax charitable deduction and lifetime income. Frequently, capital gain in the assets transferred receives favorable tax treatment.

• Gifts of a Personal Residence or Farm -- Such gifts can provide you with an immediate income tax charitable deduction as well as lifetime use of the property.

• Charitable Lead Trusts -- Generation-skipping provisions permit passing assets to your grandchildren after those assets provide income to the University for a period of years.

For further information, or to request personalized examples of the planned giving options mentioned above, contact the Office of Planned Giving or call 314-935-5848 or toll free 1-800-835-3503.