A JCF donor advised fund is an efficient way to ensure that the charities you care about will be supported for years to come. It is also a meaningful way to introduce future generations to the joys of charitable giving, and an excellent tool for estate planning.

JCF affords Fundholders the opportunity to create a long-lasting legacy of charitable giving. There is no limit to succession on JCF donor advised funds, as long as there are still assets in the fund. Each subsequent generation may name their own Successor(s). Successor election(s) can be changed by Fundholders at any time prior to the death of the last remaining Fundholder.

Succession Planning With JCF

What is a donor advised fund Successor? After the death of all Fundholders, individual Successors assume all privileges held by the Fundholders, including making grant and investment recommendations, and naming their own Successors.

All Succession Plans must be submitted in writing using the Succession Plan form or in a signed letter that is approved by JCF during your lifetime.

JCF has created three options for your Succession Plan:

Option 2:
Name Successor Charities

Some Fundholders prefer to make impactful legacy gifts directly to their charities, and therefore name IRS-qualified public charities in lieu of individuals as Successors.

Option 3:
Divide Assets Between Successors & Charities

Fundholders who wish to ensure support for charity—while also empowering their heirs to pursue their own interests—choose to list both individuals and charities as Successors.

Ways to Fund Your Legacy

Your JCF Succession Plan is the first step in creating your charitable legacy, but in order to implement your strategy, it is critical that you engage in estate planning. Please note that whatever form of bequest you choose, the assets you gift to JCF are not subject to federal estate taxes and may significantly reduce the tax burden of your estate.

JCF accepts the following assets:

Four ways to fund your charitable legacy and create a charitable succession plan.
  • Cash
  • Securities
  • Mutual funds
  • Bonds
  • Private Stock
  • Real estate and other real property
  • Life insurance
  • IRAs, pensions and other retirement accounts after your lifetime
  • Remaindermen of a private foundation
  • Trusts, including Charitable Remainder Trusts
  • Bequest from your will

Bequests to Your Fund

You may designate the Jewish Communal Fund (and specify your fund, or the JCF Special Gifts Fund) as the charitable beneficiary of a bequest from your will,* an IRA, a 401(k) plan, a charitable remainder trust, or life insurance policy. You may terminate a Private Foundation by granting all remaining assets to your JCF fund (check with your attorney for termination requirements and filing instructions).

Please complete a Deferred Gift Form if you plan to make a testamentary gift to your fund. Jewish Communal Fund’s EIN is: 23-7174183. Please see our sample language here for guidance. 

Deferred Funds

You do not have to currently be a JCF Fundholder to establish a Deferred Fund from your estate. Click here for more information.

Communicating Your Legacy

It’s a good idea to discuss your charitable wishes with your Successors during your lifetime, rather than waiting for your will be to read after your death. These conversations, while difficult at first, can strengthen family bonds and provide comfort, reassurance and clarity for both you and your heirs. The more you involve your heirs in estate planning conversations, the more likely they are to take actions after your passing to continue your charitable legacy for generations to come.

Family Legacy Planning Conversation Starters

Explore helpful family legacy planning conversation starters to jumpstart your family discussions.

Legacy Letters and Ethical Wills

Once you begin planning your family charitable legacy, many people find it meaningful to create a legacy letter or ethical will to leave for their family. This works best when it is written in addition to conversations with loved ones during your lifetime.

Questions about estate planning and donor advised funds?

We would be happy to assist you.