Your Jewish Legacy. Their Jewish Future.
The light you kindle today can illuminate Jewish lives for generations.
Imagine a grandfather helping his grandchild light the Chanukah menorah. A young child proudly reciting the Shema. A family gathering around the Shabbat table, continuing traditions passed down for thousands of years.
These are the moments that connect our past, present, and future.
Our Jewish heritage has survived and flourished because each generation has accepted the responsibility of passing it on to the next.
At Chabad of Kirkland, we work every day to strengthen that sacred connection, creating opportunities for Jewish learning, celebration, friendship, and belonging.
By including Chabad of Kirkland in your will or estate plans, you can help ensure that Jewish life continues to shine brightly in our community for generations to come.
A legacy gift is more than a donation. It is a lasting expression of your Jewish values, your commitment to our community, and your belief in the future of the Jewish people.
You do not need to be wealthy to leave a meaningful legacy.
You simply need to care about the Jewish future.
01. Why Your Legacy Matters
What we pass on is what lives on.
Every generation inherits something precious from those who came before it.
Our parents and grandparents passed down Jewish traditions, values, and a deep connection to our people. Through their dedication and sacrifice, Jewish life continues to thrive.
Today, we have the opportunity and the privilege to do the same.
When you remember Chabad of Kirkland in your estate plans, you are helping ensure that future generations will have access to the same warmth, inspiration, and sense of Jewish belonging that we cherish today.
Your gift can help sustain a welcoming Jewish home where every person, regardless of background, knowledge, or affiliation, can experience the beauty of Judaism.
It can help children discover their heritage, families celebrate meaningful traditions, and individuals find strength and connection through Jewish life.
Your legacy is not simply what you leave behind. It is what you make possible for those who come after you.
A gift that continues giving.
Unlike a one-time contribution, a legacy gift allows your commitment to Jewish life to extend beyond your lifetime.
Your generosity can become part of the foundation upon which future Jewish experiences are built.
Years from now, a child may discover the joy of Chanukah, a family may experience their first Shabbat dinner, or someone may find a meaningful connection to their Jewish identity.
You may never meet them, but your legacy can help make those moments possible.
02. Your Legacy in Action
Building a stronger Jewish tomorrow.
A legacy gift to Chabad of Kirkland helps strengthen the future of Jewish life in our community.
Your generosity can support the programs, relationships, and experiences that connect Jewish people to their heritage and to one another.
Jewish Education for the Next Generation
Every Jewish child deserves the opportunity to discover the beauty and meaning of their heritage.
Your legacy can help make Jewish learning accessible, engaging, and meaningful, giving children the knowledge, confidence, and pride to carry their traditions forward.
From learning about the Jewish holidays to understanding the importance of Mitzvot, these experiences can shape a lifetime of Jewish identity.
Shabbat and Jewish Holiday Celebrations
The warmth of Shabbat, the joy of Chanukah, the inspiration of the High Holidays, and the traditions of Passover create memories that stay with us throughout our lives.
Your legacy can help ensure that families and individuals continue to have opportunities to celebrate these special moments together.
A Welcoming Jewish Community
For some, Chabad is where they first discover their Jewish identity.
For others, it is where they reconnect with traditions they remember from childhood.
And for many, it is simply a place where they feel at home.
Your legacy can help Chabad of Kirkland remain a welcoming center of Jewish warmth, friendship, learning, and connection.
Caring for Every Jewish Soul
Jewish community is about more than programs and celebrations.
It is about being there for one another through life's joys, challenges, and milestones.
Your legacy can help sustain a community where people are welcomed, supported, and inspired.
The impact of your gift will not be measured only in dollars, but in Jewish lives touched, traditions strengthened, and generations inspired.
03. Simple Ways to Leave a Legacy
Your Jewish legacy can begin with one simple decision.
Leaving a legacy gift does not have to be complicated.
There are several ways to include Chabad of Kirkland in your financial or estate plans while continuing to care for the people and causes most important to you.
You can choose the option that best reflects your personal circumstances, family responsibilities, and charitable goals.
Option 1: Include Chabad of Kirkland in Your Will or Living Trust
One of the easiest and most popular ways to leave a lasting Jewish legacy is to remember Chabad of Kirkland in your will or revocable living trust.
You may choose to leave:
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A specific amount: A fixed dollar amount designated for Chabad of Kirkland.
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A percentage of your estate: A portion of your estate, allowing your gift to adjust with the value of your assets.
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A residual gift: All or part of what remains after your loved ones and other obligations have been provided for.
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A contingent gift: A gift that takes effect only if certain beneficiaries are unable to inherit.
Why consider a gift through your will?
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You can provide for your family first.
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You generally retain control of your assets during your lifetime.
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A revocable will or trust can generally be updated if your circumstances change.
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Your gift can be as large or as modest as you choose.
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You can create a lasting Jewish legacy without making an immediate donation.
For many families, this is a straightforward way to express their values and commitment to Jewish continuity.
Option 2: Name Chabad as a Beneficiary
Another convenient way to leave a legacy is to name Chabad of Kirkland as a beneficiary of certain financial accounts or policies.
These may include:
Retirement accounts
You may be able to name Chabad of Kirkland as a beneficiary of an IRA, 401(k), or other qualifying retirement plan.
Depending on your circumstances, retirement assets can offer particular charitable planning advantages because distributions to individual beneficiaries may be subject to income taxes.
Life insurance
You may choose to name Chabad of Kirkland as a beneficiary of an existing or a new life insurance policy.
This can allow you to create a meaningful future gift while maintaining the policy during your lifetime.
Other eligible financial accounts
Some financial institutions allow charitable organizations to be named as beneficiaries through payable-on-death or transfer-on-death arrangements, depending on the account and applicable law.
Why consider a beneficiary designation?
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The process may be as simple as completing a form.
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You can designate a percentage rather than the entire account.
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Many beneficiary designations can be changed later.
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The gift generally does not require an immediate charitable payment.
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You can create a future gift while maintaining access to eligible assets during your lifetime.
Your plan administrator or financial institution can explain the requirements for your particular account.
Option 3: Explore Additional Planned-Giving Opportunities
For donors with particular financial, estate-planning, or charitable goals, other giving arrangements may be worth exploring.
These can include:
Charitable Remainder Trusts
Certain charitable remainder trusts can provide payments to designated beneficiaries for a period of time, with the remaining assets eventually benefiting charitable organizations.
Charitable Lead Trusts
These trusts may provide payments to a charitable organization for a specified period, after which remaining assets pass to designated beneficiaries.
Gifts of Real Estate
In appropriate circumstances, real estate may be considered as part of a planned gift. Some arrangements, such as a retained life estate, can allow a donor to transfer a qualifying residence while retaining the right to live there for life.
Charitable Gift Annuities
Where an appropriately authorized arrangement is available, a charitable gift annuity may provide fixed payments to one or more beneficiaries in exchange for an irrevocable charitable gift.
These arrangements can involve significant legal, financial, administrative, and tax considerations and are not appropriate for everyone.
Chabad of Kirkland can discuss your charitable intentions and help you determine what organizational information your professional advisors may need. The availability and acceptance of any particular gift arrangement must be confirmed.
The most meaningful legacy is one that reflects your values and works for your family.
04. Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be wealthy to leave a legacy gift?
Absolutely not.
Legacy giving is not reserved for the wealthy.
A meaningful legacy can be created through a modest gift, a percentage of an estate, or a beneficiary designation.
What matters most is your desire to help ensure the future of Jewish life.
Shouldn't I provide for my children and family first?
Of course.
Your family and loved ones are an important part of your legacy.
Many donors choose to provide for their families first and designate only a portion of their remaining estate for charitable purposes.
A legacy gift should complement your family responsibilities, not compete with them.
Will making a legacy commitment affect my finances today?
Not necessarily.
For example, a gift made through a revocable will generally does not require you to transfer money or property to Chabad during your lifetime.
You can continue using your assets as you normally would.
Other types of planned gifts may involve immediate transfers or different financial obligations.
Can I change my mind later?
In many cases, yes.
Bequests through revocable wills or trusts and many beneficiary designations can generally be changed as your needs and circumstances evolve.
Some other planned-giving arrangements are irrevocable, so it is important to understand the terms before making a commitment.
Can I choose how my legacy gift will be used?
You may express a preference for supporting a particular program or area of Jewish life.
However, because community needs may change over time, unrestricted gifts can provide valuable flexibility to address the most important needs of future generations.
If you have a particular purpose in mind, we encourage you to speak with us before finalizing your plans so we can discuss whether your wishes can be fulfilled.
Can I make a gift in memory or honor of someone special?
A legacy gift can be a meaningful way to honor the memory of a parent, grandparent, spouse, or another loved one.
It can also celebrate your family's connection to Jewish tradition and help carry cherished values into the future.
Please contact us to discuss any recognition or dedication you have in mind.
Is my legacy commitment confidential?
Yes. We respect the personal nature of estate planning.
You are not required to disclose your intentions to us.
If you choose to share your plans, we will respect your wishes regarding privacy and public recognition.
Do I have to notify Chabad if I include it in my will?
No.
However, letting us know gives us an opportunity to thank you personally, understand your charitable intentions, and help ensure that your wishes can be honored.
There is no obligation to disclose the value of your gift.
Can I receive tax benefits from a planned gift?
Certain planned gifts may provide charitable tax benefits, depending on the type of gift, applicable law, and your individual circumstances.
Because tax rules can be complex and change over time, we encourage you to consult your attorney, accountant, or financial advisor.
How do I get started?
A conversation is a wonderful first step.
You can speak with Rabbi Chaim S. Rivkin about your hopes for the Jewish future, request information for your attorney, or simply explore the possibilities.
There is no pressure and no obligation.
05. Information for Your Attorney or Financial Advisor
Helping you put your wishes into action.
If you are considering including Chabad of Kirkland in your estate plans, the following information may be helpful to you and your professional advisors.
Full Legal Name: Chabad of Kirkland Inc.
Federal Tax Identification Number (EIN): 81-4575781
Organization: Chabad of Kirkland
Important Information for Estate Planning
Chabad-Lubavitch has many centers throughout the world, including several in Washington State.
Each local Chabad center is financially independent.
To ensure that your intended gift benefits the Jewish community served by Chabad of Kirkland, it is important that your estate documents correctly identify:
Chabad of Kirkland Inc.
Using the correct legal name and tax identification number can help avoid confusion with other Chabad organizations.
Sample Language for a Charitable Bequest
Your attorney may find the following illustrative language helpful when preparing your estate documents.
Specific Dollar Amount
"I give the sum of $________ to Chabad of Kirkland Inc., Federal Tax ID 81-4575781, for its general charitable purposes."
Percentage of Estate
"I give ______ percent of my residuary estate to Chabad of Kirkland Inc., Federal Tax ID 81-4575781, for its general charitable purposes."
Residual Bequest
"I give all [or ______ percent] of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate to Chabad of Kirkland Inc., Federal Tax ID 81-4575781, for its general charitable purposes."
A Gift for a Specific Purpose
If you would like your gift to support a particular program or initiative, we encourage you to contact Chabad of Kirkland before finalizing your documents.
Your attorney can help prepare language that reflects your wishes while providing appropriate flexibility if circumstances change in the future.
These examples are provided for general informational purposes only and are not legal advice. All bequest language should be reviewed and adapted by your qualified estate-planning attorney.
Working With Professional Advisors
We welcome inquiries from attorneys, accountants, financial planners, and other professionals assisting individuals and families with charitable estate planning.
We would be pleased to provide organizational information and discuss the charitable purposes of a proposed gift.
06. Let's Talk About Your Legacy
A personal invitation from Rabbi Chaim S. Rivkin
Dear Friend,
There is something deeply beautiful about the Jewish tradition of passing our heritage from one generation to the next.
When a grandfather helps his grandchild light the Chanukah menorah, when a family gathers around the Shabbat table, or when a young child discovers the joy of a mitzvah, we see the extraordinary power of Jewish continuity.
These moments remind us that Judaism is not simply something we inherit. It is something we nurture, celebrate, and pass forward.
At Chabad of Kirkland, it is our privilege to help create these experiences every day.
And it is only possible because of caring individuals who believe that every Jew deserves a connection to their heritage.
As you consider the legacy you wish to leave behind, I invite you to think about the Jewish future you can help create.
Imagine knowing that, because of your generosity, children will continue learning about their Jewish identity, families will continue celebrating Shabbat and the holidays, and Jewish life will continue growing in our community.
What greater legacy can we leave than helping ensure that the light of Judaism continues to shine?
Including Chabad of Kirkland in your will or estate plans is a meaningful way to express your values and help secure that future.
Whether your gift is large or small, it represents something priceless: your commitment to the continuity of the Jewish people.
I would be honored to speak with you personally, hear what matters most to you, and explore how your wishes can help strengthen Jewish life for generations to come.
There is no obligation and no pressure–just a warm and confidential conversation about the future we can help build together.
With warm wishes and appreciation,
Rabbi Chaim S. Rivkin
Chabad of Kirkland
Begin Your Legacy Conversation
Whether you are ready to include Chabad of Kirkland in your estate plans or are simply exploring the idea, we would be happy to speak with you.
Request a Confidential Conversation
Request Information for My Attorney
Let Us Know About an Existing Legacy Gift
Your inquiry is confidential and carries no obligation.
The Light You Kindle Today Can Shine Forever.
The greatest legacy is not only what we leave behind, but the values, traditions, and inspiration that continue because of us.
Your Jewish Legacy. Their Jewish Future.
Together, we can help ensure that Jewish life in our community continues to flourish for generations to come.