A: Our legal name is the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. We are located at 350 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts. We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and our tax identification number is 04-2103597.
PLEASE NOTE: The MSPCA–Angell is not operated by any national humane organization. We were founded in 1868 by George T. Angell, and we’ve been an independent nonprofit organization ever since.
The full name of our organization is the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals – Angell Animal Medical Center, or MSPCA–Angell. The MSPCA comprises our adoption center (shelter) operations, our Advocacy Department, and our Law Enforcement Department. Angell Animal Medical Center is our nonprofit veterinary hospital.
Q: What are the best ways to remember the MSPCA in my will?
We encourage donors to consider giving their support without restrictions, so that the MSPCA can use the funds to address the most immediate needs of the animals in our care.
Please consider adding to the endowment of the MSPCA so that over time we can receive a regular stream of income to augment the dollars received from appeals.
Q: What kinds of assets may be given to the MSPCA Angell under my will?
A: In addition to cash or appreciated securities, the MSPCA – Angell accepts real estate, or tangible personal property, such as jewelry or collections. We also accept gifts of automobiles in good, working condition. Individuals may choose to support the mission of the MSPCA through contributions of life insurance or pension plan assets.
Q: How do I provide for my animal companion(s) after I pass away?
A: Please visit our Estate Planning page for more information. An estate-planning attorney can also provide details on several ways to include your pets in your estate plan documents.
Q: I plan to live in my home for the rest of my life and hope to someday donate it to the MSPCA. Are there any advantages to my donating it now?
A: For those who know that they would like to donate their personal residence to the MSPCA, they can consider donating the property now, retaining the right to live there for the rest of their lives. The MSPCA does not have any rights, or any obligations; however, the donor may become entitled to a substantial tax deduction. They also have the security of knowing that the property will pass without the complications of probate and that their estate may save taxes.
Q: Are there any special income tax considerations for bequests to individuals and to charities?
A: Typically, there is not an income tax due when an individual receives an inheritance. One exception is when an individual (other than a spouse) inherits a non-Roth IRA or other retirement plan. In many cases, the distributions are subject to income taxes. In contrast, charitable beneficiaries of IRAs and retirement plans do not pay any income taxes on the withdrawals. For this reason, sometimes attorneys and financial advisors recommend to their clients that they name a charity as a beneficiary of their non-Roth IRA and retirement plans and bequeath other assets to loved ones.
Q: Does MSPCA accept gifts of homes or other types of real estate?
A: For donors who are in the process of downsizing and would prefer to avoid the hassle of selling their primary or vacation home, an outright gift of real estate to the MSPCA may be an attractive option. The MSPCA also welcomes inquiries from owners of undeveloped land or commercial property. The MSPCA does not accept gifts of timeshares.