Gifts That Pay You Income

Charitable Gift Annuities (CGAs) are a great way to make a lasting difference for ministries while receiving tax-favorable income for you, your spouse and your children. Many supporters prefer charitable gift annuities because of their attractive payout rates and their significant impact.

Charitable Gift Annuities

Charitable Gift Annuities (CGAs) are a great way to make a lasting difference for ministries while receiving tax-favorable income for you, your spouse and your children. Many supporters prefer charitable gift annuities because of their attractive payout rates and their significant impact.

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Charitable Remainder Trusts

Income for life for you and your family while reducing your taxes. By using assets or cash to fund the trust, you receive income and an income tax credit the year in which you transfer your assets. The remaining portion of the trust, after all payments have been made, comes to you.

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Who Would Raise Your Children? Nominating a Guardian in Arizona

Wealth stewardship isn't just about managing assets; it’s about protecting the people those assets are meant to serve. For parents in Southern Arizona, the most critical "what if" is: Who would take care of my children if I couldn't?

If you haven't legally documented your wishes, a Pima County judge—a stranger who doesn't know your family dynamics, your values, or your child's personality—will be forced to make that decision for you. This can lead to family conflict and unnecessary trauma for children already dealing with a loss.

Choice vs. Legal Reality: Why a Verbal Agreement Isn't Enough

Many parents have "the talk" with a sibling or grandparent, assuming that an informal agreement is sufficient. However, in Arizona, an informal agreement holds no legal weight in court. You need a formal Nomination of Guardian, typically established within your Will or a standalone Child Protection Plan.

Key Factors to Consider for Arizona Guardianship

Values and Lifestyle: Does the person share your views on education, social development, and religious activities?
Local Continuity: Will your children have to move away from their Tucson schools, friends, and support systems?
Stability and Capacity: Under Arizona law, the court prioritizes the "best interests of the child." A potential guardian should be emotionally ready for the lifetime commitment.
Willingness: Always confirm with your chosen guardian before finalizing your documents.

Separating the "Money" from the "Care"

In Arizona, the person raising the child (the Guardian) does not have to be the person managing the child’s inheritance (the Trustee).

The "Checks and Balances" Approach: You might choose one relative to provide the daily loving home environment and another person—perhaps someone with more financial experience—to manage the trust assets. This ensures your children’s needs are met while their wealth is professionally stewarded.

Emergency Planning: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Guardians

What happens in the first 24 hours of an emergency? A comprehensive plan includes a "Short-Term Guardian" nomination—someone local in Tucson or Sahuarita who can step in immediately. This prevents children from being placed in temporary state care while the court waits for a long-term guardian to arrive from out of state.

A Quick Comparison of Roles

Role	Responsibility	Legal Authority
Guardian	Daily care, medical, and education	Parental authority
Trustee	Managing inheritance and investments	Fiduciary authority
Short-Term Guardian	Immediate care in an emergency	Temporary POA (6 Months)

Don’t Leave Your Legacy to Chance

Nominating a guardian is a gift of clarity to your family. It prevents conflict, bypasses unnecessary court delays, and ensures your children are raised by the people you trust most.

Estate Planning

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Move from Uncertainty to Financial Clarity

Complex financial decisions benefit from experienced and thoughtful execution Schedule a brief date and time to discuss your goals and how we will help.