LEGACY SOCIETY | April 2025

Make a Lasting Impact with Your Retirement Assets

Many Americans save for retirement using tax-deferred accounts such as IRAs, 401(k)s, or 403(b)s. After years of diligent saving and investing, it’s essential to consider how these assets will be distributed when they are no longer needed. By naming the Museum of New Mexico Foundation and our cherished cultural institutions as beneficiaries, you can support the preservation and celebration of our state's vibrant heritage.

A Lasting Legacy: Honoring a Generous Member

We recently received an unexpected gift of $75,000 from the retirement assets of a long-time member who thoughtfully named the Foundation as a beneficiary. While he had not informed us of his plans, his generosity will significantly enhance our ability to raise funds for the cultural institutions we support. We are deeply grateful for his foresight and kindness. If you’re considering a similar legacy, please let us know your intentions so we can honor and thank you during your lifetime.

Why Consider Donating Your Unused Retirement Assets?

Leaving retirement assets to heirs may result in a significant tax burden. Unlike traditional inheritance, designating a charity as a beneficiary allows the full value of your gift to directly support the Foundation’s mission. This choice ensures that your legacy continues to enrich our museums, programs, and cultural initiatives.

Ways to Donate

You have flexible options to make a meaningful contribution:

· Specific Amount Gift: Choose to leave a designated sum from your IRA or other retirement accounts.

· Percentage Gift: Allocate a percentage of your accounts to the Foundation.

· Remainder Gift: Provide for your family first and designate the remainder to us.

 

These simple designations can be arranged by contacting your plan administrator and completing a beneficiary designation form.

The Benefits of a Beneficiary Designation Gift

· Tax Savings: Retirement accounts left to a charity are not subject to income taxes, maximizing the impact of your gift.

· Flexibility: You retain control over your assets during your lifetime.

· Leacy Creation: Your support helps sustain cultural programs for future generations.

We’re Here to Help

If you are considering a legacy gift through your retirement account, we encourage you to contact Laura Sullivan, Director of Planned Giving, at 505.216.0829 or laura@museumfoundation.org. We are happy to assist you through the process and ensure your wishes are honored.

Together, we can preserve the stories, traditions, and artistry that define New Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Thank you for considering this powerful way to give back.