Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I create income with my gift?

  Yes! The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) has many plans for Gifts That Pay You Income. When you make a gift, you can choose to receive a regular income from it. This income can also be provided for a child, a grandchild, a parent, or a friend. The income can increase cash flow now and during retirement, pay for a college education, provide income for aging parents, or perhaps assist a loved one with special needs. You can also provide income to UAH by using a Charitable Lead Trust.

• I cannot make a current gift, but I'd still like to support UAH in the future. Any ideas?

  An easy and low-cost way to make a gift to UAH is to include the University of Alabama Huntsville Foundation (UAHF) in your will or revocable trust. Gifts by Will are a major source of endowment support at UAH. Each legacy contributes to our financial strength and ability to provide our students with a stellar education and the resources for our faculty. If you have not already done so, please consider putting UAHF in your will or revocable trust. See our Bequest Language page for suggested wording. You can also designate UAHF as the beneficiary of Life Insurance, annuities, or Retirement-Plan Benefits.

• What asset should I use to make my gift?

  While cash or a check is a simple way to make a gift, you might want to consider the following:

  Gift Type	Possible Benefits
  Cash	Current income-tax deduction
  Appreciated securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Current income-tax deduction Generate income
  Transfer of residential, commercial, or undeveloped real estate	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income Relief from management
  Donate an interest in closely held or family business stock	Reduce the cost of passing the business to heirs Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income
  Give us tangible personal property like art, books, or collectibles	An income-tax charitable deduction
  Make UAH the owner and beneficiary of life insurance or annuities	Income- and estate-tax savings

   

• Can I direct how UAH will use my gift?

  Most often the answer to this is “yes”! Many donors direct that their gifts be used to fund programs, support specific departments, or remember a loved one. When you make your gift, you can discuss your preferences with us, and we will provide the necessary paperwork to ensure your wishes are met.

• How will UAH recognize my gift?

  If your gift is a bequest commitment or through life insurance, life-income plans, or lead trusts, you not only make a lasting impact on the University and our students but also join other supporters and friends as members of the Richardson Shaver Thrasher Society. The RST Society honors those who plant the seeds of UAH’s future. We understand the importance of privacy, and we will always honor any requests for gifts to be anonymous—ensuring your giving experience is respectful and secure.

• Why should I consider a gift to UAH?

  Gifts are made for many different reasons. Often gifts are made:

  • To leave a mark on the future.
  • To support what you believe in.
  • To honor a loved one.
  • To ensure UAH will remain a vibrant and strong place for our community and students.
  • To help UAH provide the very best education to our students, regardless of their finances.
  • To celebrate a special occasion.

Please contact the Gift Planning Office for more information.