A creative way to provide for the future of Saint Louis University is to name the University as beneficiary of retirement assets or financial accounts. Beneficiary designations can be made without amending a will or revocable living trust. In addition, beneficiary designations generally avoid the probate process and may reduce income and estate taxes. Individuals who participate in qualified retirement plans or Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) may name Saint Louis University as primary or contingent beneficiary of these assets. Call the administrator of the retirement assets to obtain the necessary forms. As with any gift arrangement, donors should consult with their professional advisers regarding this possibility.

In addition to retirement plan beneficiary designations, donors may name Saint Louis University as beneficiary of many types of financial accounts. Many states allow pay on death (P.O.D.) accounts that enable individuals to name the University as beneficiary of savings accounts, checking accounts or certificates of deposit. The assets in these accounts pass to the University normally free of probate and estate taxation upon an individual's death.

Please contact the Office of Planned Giving for additional information.