Beneficiary Designations

What is a Beneficiary Designation?

A beneficiary designation is a straightforward way to name a person or organization (like BCPEF) to receive an asset directly upon your passing. This instruction is made directly with the financial institution that holds the asset, and it operates independently of your Will.

Because you can change your beneficiaries at any time, this giving method is highly flexible, allowing you to retain full control of your assets during your lifetime while still planning for a future gift.

Tax-Smart Advantage

Gifting assets through a beneficiary designation can be one of the most tax-efficient ways to give. When heirs inherit retirement plan assets (like an IRA or 401(k)), they must pay income taxes on those distributions. However, as a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit, BCPEF receives the full amount of your gift, tax-free. This means 100% of your generous donation goes to the charity you wish to support.

Three Simple Steps to Make Your Gift

1. Request the Form: Contact the administrator of your retirement plan, insurance policy, or bank account for a “Change of Beneficiary” form. Most are available to download online.
2. Name BCPEF: Designate the “Bradley Cleveland Public Education Foundation” as a full, partial, or contingent beneficiary. You will need our legal information:
   • Legal Name: Bradley Cleveland Public Education Foundation
   • Tax ID Number (EIN): 20-0585134
   • Address: 833 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311
3. Return the Form: Sign and return the form to your plan administrator.
4. Notify BCPEF: Let us know of your generosity so we can thank you!

We always recommend consulting with your attorney or financial advisor to determine the best approach for your personal circumstances.

Join The Legacy Society

Donors who choose to include BCPEF in their estate plans are invited to join The Legacy Society, a special group of forward-thinking supporters dedicated to securing the future of public education in our community.

If you have already named BCPEF as a beneficiary, we encourage you to let us know. Sharing your intentions allows us to thank you properly, welcome you into The Legacy Society, and ensure your future gift is used exactly as you wish.