Planned Gifts
About the Charitable Gift Annuity
- It’s a simple contract and process to receive annual income for life.
- Your gift of cash or securities of $10,000 or more is designated to an SOU program of your choice, and in return, the SOU Foundation pays you (or a person you name) a fixed amount during your lifetime (s).
- The payment rate is determined by your age, based on the recommendation of the American Council of Gift Annuities.
- Upon your passing, the remaining amount supports the SOU programs you selected.
- You will receive an immediate tax deduction and your income will be partially tax free.
- Your annuity rate is locked in. Regardless of how the market performs, you get the peace of mind of a consistent and guaranteed annual payment for life.
Download CGA Information Sheet
Use Your Retirement Account for a Charitable Gift Annuity
Congress recently passed the Legacy IRA Act, creating a new opportunity. As of 2026, you can direct your IRA Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to fund a Charitable Gift Annuity.
- You must be 70½ years or older
- You can contribute up to $55,000 from your IRA within one tax year
- Minimum 5% taxable annuity distribution to you and/or your spouse during your lifetime
- Additional rules and limitations apply
2026 Annual Payment Rates
| AGE | ONE PERSON |
|---|---|
| 65 | 5.7% |
| 70 | 6.3% |
| 75 | 7.0% |
| 80 | 8.1% |
| 85 | 9.1% |
| 90+ | 10.1% |
Charitable Gift Annuity Impact Stories
Sustaining the Arts with a Charitable Gift Annuity
Julia Sommer, a dedicated supporter of the arts and music, shares her profound connection with Southern Oregon University, detailing her journey from joining the local performing arts scene to creating two charitable gift annuities that will perpetually fund Jefferson Public Radio and SOU’s music, dance, and theater programs, expressing the joy of giving back and ensuring a lasting impact on the cultural richness of Ashland.
“I love attending SOU’s music and drama performances, and wanted to show my appreciation by supporting OCA students and faculty. I’m also a huge fan of JPR. After reviewing my investments, and watching the volatility of the market, I decided to create two charitable gift annuities that would give me a steady stream of income during my lifetime regardless of how the investment market is doing.”
Learn More About Gift Annuities
We’d love to hear from you! Please contact the Office of Development to discuss further your charitable intent. We can provide a personalized document to share with your attorney or tax adviser. Communication with the staff is always confidential and never infers an obligation.
If you have already made a planned gift to SOU, we’d like to thank you and ensure that your gift reflects your charitable intention.
Cristina Sanz
Director of Development
Phone: 541.552.6422
Email: sanzm@sou.edu