Philanthropy

Advisors, attorneys and accountants are increasingly recommending donor-advised funds to clients interested in charitable planning. Here are some questions advisors should ask fund sponsors when helping clients select the right one.

The most important reason to engage in pro bono work is to help those who are in need of free advice. But pro bono work can also pay off in other ways.

Almost half (46%) of advisors believe their clients donate to charity to reduce their taxes, when in fact only 10% do.

Most advisors offer their services to the wealthy. The people honored here provide planning help to clients who can least afford it - and need it most.

Here’s how one advisor encourages philanthropic efforts of his clients by being a philanthropist himself.

Among the very wealthy, family foundations long have been a common vehicle for charitable giving. However, more families than ever are skipping foundations altogether in favor of simpler and cheaper donor-advised funds.

“People are starting to think more strategically about giving,” says Schwab Charitable President Kim Laughton. “It really started last fall. What’s nice is it’s continuing this year.”

Charitable lead annuity trusts have become even more attractive because of a recent U.S. Tax Court ruling.

Karla D'Alleva Valas, a managing director of the Complex Asset Group for Fidelity Charitable, says she cringes during her church's services when congregants drop envelopes of what she assumes is cash into the donations basket. Why? Cash is expensive, she told advisors at the Women Advisors Forum in Dallas on Thursday.

Financial advisors underestimate their clients’ interests in philanthropy, and consequently miss out on opportunities to tap into those passions and expand those relationships.

The Financial Planning Association and the Foundation for Financial Planning are joining forces to boost the organizations’ pro bono efforts.

The Internal Revenue Service is warning potential donors to beware of charity scams operating in the wake of the explosions last week at the Boston Marathon and a Texas fertilizer plant.

A group representing charitable organizations said it is concerned about a proposed cap to the charitable tax deduction included in President Obama's budget plan.

A coalition of charities has expressed concerns about a Senate budget proposal that could potentially place a limit on charitable deductions.

More than one in five worry they may not be doing enough to make a difference, with 82% subscribing to the belief that greater wealth brings a greater obligation to be philanthropic.

What's worse than battling with a loved one over money? Watching another couple argue about money ... right in your conference room.

After election jitters and the fiscal cliff melodrama, advisors find optimism - and a planning opportunity.

As we head into the 2013 tax season, advisors should tell clients to be sure they won’t be hit with a Durden-style disallowance

An ethical will can ensure the positive impact of your client's life on future generations.

Taxes and the economy colluded to make 2012 a record year for grants and contributions.