Donor Story: Transferable on Death (TOD) Gifts

Harold and Jeanne married after meeting at an event American Friends of Magen David Adom held for our donors. They wanted to leave a legacy gift that would support our mission and ensure that we remain financially strong well into the future.

Harold: Jeanne and I have always felt a strong connection to American Friends of Magen David Adom and their work. Over the years we have seen the organization grow and help so many people. We wanted to make sure that they have the means to continue to grow for years to come.

Jeanne: We talked to our investment advisor about planning goals and explained that we wanted to support American Friends of Magen David Adom. Our advisor suggested a simple solution — naming American Friends of Magen David Adom as a beneficiary of one of our mutual funds.

Marcus, who was Harold and Jeanne's investment advisor, suggested that Harold and Jeanne use a "transferable on death" or "TOD" form. Marcus explained that because Harold and Jeanne jointly owned the account, the TOD beneficiary designation form would ensure that they can benefit from the mutual fund during their joint lives, that the survivor of the two of them would continue to own the mutual fund for the rest of the survivor's life, and that after both pass away, the mutual fund would be transferred to American Friends of Magen David Adom. Marcus provided the proper TOD beneficiary designation form, and Harold and Jeanne were easily able to complete the paperwork before they left Marcus's office.

Jeanne: We really liked Marcus's idea. Making a TOD gift was simple to set up and will let us continue to use the mutual fund to meet our needs in retirement.

Harold: I like knowing that if I pass away, Jeanne will have enough to meet her needs. We both like knowing that American Friends of Magen David Adom will receive the mutual fund after both of us pass away. We couldn't be happier with our giving strategy.

Is a transferable on death (TOD) gift right for you?

If you own stocks, bonds or mutual funds and would like to make a gift to leave a legacy and support American Friends of Magen David Adom, consider a transfer on death gifting strategy. If you have questions about transfer on death giving strategies, please contact us. We would be happy to assist you and answer any questions that you have.

*Please note: The name above is representative of a typical donor and may or may not be an actual donor to our organization. Since the benefits of a TOD gift may differ depending on your personal circumstances, please consult with your legal, tax or financial advisor.