There’s rarely been a better time to obtain a charitable gift annuity through the University of Tennessee Foundation. Low interest rates and roller coaster markets are causing people to think twice about their financial decisions, and to consider the seven benefits of the UT Foundation’s gift annuity program.

1. Attractive Rates.

When you compare our gift annuity rates with what you might receive from a certificate of deposit you will likely be pleasantly surprised. For example, the rate of a 70-year senior is 5.7 percent, and, if you are age 80, the rate is 7.1 percent. In other words, a $100,000 gift annuity would provide an 80-year-old person $7,100 every year.*

2. Regular Payments.

When you establish your gift annuity, you decide how often you want to receive your payments. While most annuitants receive their checks or direct deposits every quarter, some choose semi-annual payments and some once-a-year payments. Those who qualify can select monthly payments if they wish. Whatever you choose, receiving your regular payments on a specific, predetermined date is comforting and also helpful for planning purposes.

3. Fixed Income.

Your payment rate will be locked in at the time you obtain your gift annuity. It will not rise or fall with the economy. Instead, it will be the same amount every year — and that can mean a lot in uncertain times.

4. Lifetime Benefit.

Gift annuities are for life. No matter what your age as an annuitant or how long you live, your payments will continue until your death. And if you have a two-life gift annuity, when one person dies, the other can continue to receive the same amount for the rest of his or her life. This benefit of ongoing payments can provide security for each spouse as they enter their older years.

5. Dependable Source.

The UT Foundation stands behind all of our gift annuities. We have a reserve fund set aside to meet our obligations and, what’s more, we back up our annuity obligations with the full financial assets of our organization. We want you to feel safe and secure and to have confidence that your payments will continue without fail.

6. Relief From Taxes.

Since part of your contribution for a gift annuity is considered a charitable gift by the IRS, you will receive an income tax charitable deduction to apply on an itemized return. Also, during your lifeexpectancy, you will be able to claim part of the annuity payment as tax-free income.

7. Simple Process.

Obtaining a gift annuity through the UT Foundation is much easier than most people think. We provide you with a tailor-made illustration so you can see how it all works with your age and contribution amount included. We provide materials you can share with your family and adviser(s).
Another benefit we should add is the enormous satisfaction you will receive for making a charitable gift in this manner. Every time you receive a payment, you will be reminded that your gift annuity will eventually benefit the university.

For a personalized gift illustration, call the UT Martin Office of Development at 731-881-7620. Please understand that we will not pressure you in any way to proceed with a gift annuity if you ask for further information. Our role is to simply provide clear illustrations and to let the seven benefits speak for themselves.

*Note: Rates are slightly lower when the annuity is for two persons. Also, like most charities, The UT Foundation uses the rates recommended by the American Council on Gift Annuities.