Charitable Planning in Maine

Pay More Taxes — or Give to Charity? Let’s Make It Count.

Giving With Purpose — and a Plan

At Paul O. Dillon Attorney at Law, we help individuals and families give to causes they care about — in ways that are personally meaningful and financially smart. Whether you want to support your church, alma mater, or a nonprofit close to your heart, we’ll guide you through strategies that align your generosity with long-term tax advantages and legacy goals.

Give Wisely. Benefit Today and Tomorrow.

Why Charitable Planning Matters

When done right, charitable giving can reduce income taxes, eliminate capital gains, provide lifetime income, and lower estate taxes — all while supporting the organizations that reflect your values. It’s not just about giving back; it’s about giving wisely.



We work closely with individuals, couples, and families across Maine to incorporate charitable strategies into their estate plans, retirement income planning, or legacy giving.

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How We Help

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1. Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs)

Provide lifetime income for you or someone you choose, while securing a current income tax deduction and reducing capital gains exposure.
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2. Charitable Lead Trusts (CLTs)

Generate a stream of income for a charity over time, with the remaining assets eventually passing to your heirs — often with no estate or gift tax.
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3. Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)

Simplify recurring giving to your church or favorite causes, while maximizing income tax savings.
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4. Private Foundations

Create a giving legacy under your control, with the ability to guide how and when funds are used.
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5. Tax-Smart Giving Strategies

We identify how to structure your gifts — whether cash, stocks, real estate, or retirement assets — for the greatest financial and charitable impact.
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6. Integrating Giving into Your Estate Plan

Whether through your trust, will, or beneficiary designations, we ensure your generosity becomes part of your legacy.

Our Process

We’re here to listen — Schedule a consult today.

Thoughtful giving begins with thoughtful planning. Here’s how we help clients in Maine make a lasting impact — without unnecessary taxes or legal complexity.

People
  • We begin with what’s important to you — the causes, communities, or individuals you want to support. Whether it’s your church, a nonprofit, or your alma mater, we help you define your vision for giving.
Property
  • Next, we look at what you have to give — from cash and real estate to investments or retirement accounts. We help identify which assets offer the greatest tax benefits when used for charitable planning.
Plans
  • Finally, we walk through the best strategies — whether it’s setting up a trust, launching a donor-advised fund, or including giving provisions in your estate plan. Every option is explained clearly, and every plan is customized to your goals.
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FAQs

  • Can charitable giving really reduce taxes?

    Yes. Many gifts come with significant income tax and estate tax deductions when structured properly.

  • Do I have to be wealthy to set up a trust or fund?

    Not at all. We work with clients of all income levels to create giving strategies that fit their means and values.

  • What’s the benefit of a donor-advised fund?

    It allows you to claim an immediate tax deduction while recommending grants to your favorite charities over time.

  • Can I support my church through charitable planning?

    Yes. Recurring church donations can be structured for tax efficiency and included in your estate plan.

  • What happens to my trust or foundation after I pass away?

    We help you outline successor plans — whether involving family members or a board — to carry on your charitable legacy.

  • Do charitable strategies work with retirement accounts?

    Yes. In fact, giving through IRAs or appreciated assets can create major tax benefits when done right.

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Whether you’re already giving or just beginning to think about it, we can help you align your values with smart planning strategies that make a lasting difference.