Retained life estates

Give your home today, continue living there

and create a lasting legacy

A Retained Life Estate allows you to transfer a personal residence or property to Ascension Wisconsin Foundation while retaining the right to live in and use the property for the rest of your lifetime.

This option allows you to make a meaningful future gift while continuing to live in your home.

Why donors choose this option:

Continue living in your home for your lifetime
Receive a potential charitable income tax deduction (subject to IRS rules)
Remove the property from your estate for future planning purposes
Create a significant future gift to support patients and families

How it works

You transfer ownership of your home or property to Ascension Wisconsin Foundation
You retain the legal right to live in and use property for life
You remain responsible for maintenance, taxes, and upkeep during your lifetime (as outlined in the agreement)
After your lifetime, full ownership transfers to the Foundation

Important note:

Retained Life Estate arrangements involve real estate and legal agreements and must be established with an attorney. Your financial and legal advisors can help determine whether this strategy aligns with your overall estate plan.

Next steps

Review your property and estate plans. Consider how your home fits into your long term goals.
Connect with your advisor. Retained life estates require legal and financial planning guidance.
Explore structure options. Your attorney can help ensure the agreement reflects your wishes and responsibilities.
Let us know. If you are considering or have established a Retained Life Estate benefiting Ascension Wisconsin Foundation, we would be honored to hear from you. This is not legally binding and does not require financial details, it simply allows us to thank you and welcome you into our Legacy Society.