Do you find holiday shopping for children and grandchildren challenging? What size, color, type should you buy? Will they like it? Do you know their current needs?
ONE SIZE FITS ALL
By buying a gift card, you can make the task simple for yourself. This will pass the burden of choice on to the recipient, who you may think has everything. No need to know size, color or type.
THE GIFT OF COLLEGE EDUCATION
Or better yet, contribute to your child or grandchild’s 529 College Savings Plan. This is a gift that keeps on giving: contributions grow tax-free and distributions will be tax-free if used for qualified higher education expenses. Grandparents who open and fund a 529 for the benefit of their grandchild can reduce their estate tax exposure, as contributions are considered “gifts” for tax purposes.
GIVE A TRADITION OF GIVING
Another gift that fits any size is a charitable gift. Working with your child or grandchild to decide the charity of his or her choice becomes a valuable teaching experience. One ideal method of giving is through your donor-advised fund. This account has hopefully grown since its inception and grants are now a click away.
Involving your child or grandchild in the grant-making process will help foster a tradition of giving for generations to come.
And remember, no standing in line for the purchase, or to mail a gift that is not the right color, size or style.
For more information about these “spirit of giving” ideas in the world of wealth management, read our Charitable Giving post and College Savings post or contact us directly. Perhaps these ideas will bring your family joy this holiday and every holiday in the future. And they may just save you time and money!