WHAT IS A GIFT ANNUITY?

A gift annuity is a contract between you and WELS Foundation, in which you make a gift of cash or securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds) in exchange for fixed quarterly annuity payments for life. After the passing of the annuitant(s), the remainder of the gift will be used by your congregation, school, area Lutheran high school, synod, or WELS-affiliated ministry.

WHAT ARE THE FEATURES?

• Flexible: You can begin annuity payments right away or sometime in the future when you will need additional income. The minimum gift size is $10,000; there is no maximum limit. You can fund a gift annuity for yourself, a loved one, or a friend.
• Secure: Your annuity payments are backed by the assets of WELS Foundation.
• Permanent: Your annuity payment is a fixed amount, dependable, and unchangeable.
• Minimum ages: Immediate payment annuities are available to WELS members 60 and older; deferred payment annuities are available to members 45 and older.
• Irrevocable: Once established, a gift annuity cannot be changed or cancelled. You may, however, choose to end the annuity payments to you and allow the remaining amount to be paid directly to your chosen ministries.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

• Joy: Arrange to benefit the area of the Lord’s work that is closest to your heart.
• Fixed payments for life: Your gift comes with the assurance of steady, lifelong payments.
• Tax savings: You receive an immediate income tax charitable deduction, and, in most instances, a portion of your gift annuity payment will be a tax-free return of the original principal. There are additional benefits when transferring appreciated assets for a gift annuity.
• Lasting impact: After the passing of the annuitant(s), the balance will be used to continue the Lord’s work in your congregation, synod, or other WELS ministries.