Make the Tabby’s Place cats a beneficiary of your IRA or other “non-probate” assets
Why beneficiary designations are so powerful
Assets not included in your will are called non-probate assets. Examples include 401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance policies, and other accounts. Designating Tabby’s Place as a beneficiary will save many cats and may avoid unwanted taxes for your loved ones.

Charitable benefits

Common gifted assets for beneficiaries
- IRA
- 401(k)
- Life insurance
Designate Tabby's Place as a beneficiary to one or more of your accounts.
This free online platform will walk you through the process of setting up your beneficiaries. A few minutes today will ensure that you’ll be here for the cats for decades to come.
Planned giving ensures we’ll be here for cats for decades to come
A gift in your will gives the cats a strong foundation for the future. Estate gifts like yours make sure there will always be a Tabby’s Place for cats who have nowhere else to turn.

“I have always believed in the importance of compassion and care, especially for those who are most vulnerable. That’s why I’ve chosen to make Tabby’s Place a beneficiary in my estate planning. This sanctuary is a haven for cats who have endured the unimaginable – rescued from abuse, neglect, and dire circumstances. Each cat is treated with the utmost love and care. The sanctuary’s commitment to providing top- notch veterinary care, tailored diets, and a comfortable and nurturing environment where these animals can live happy, healthy lives is truly inspiring. I want to ensure that this incredible work continues, so every cat in need has a chance at the life they deserve.”
Patricia Schaeffer
Volunteer, Member of the Board
Frequently Asked Questions
A non-probate asset is an account or other asset that won’t be governed by the decisions you make in a will. Instead, these accounts commonly have an assigned beneficiary that you choose. Types of non-probate assets include many retirement accounts, life insurance, some bank accounts and some assets (like a house or vehicle) that you jointly own with another person.
The most commonly gifted non-probate asset is an IRA or 401(k). This is because these accounts are always taxed (even for people below the estate tax threshold). Giving these accounts to charity keeps your heirs from having to pay unexpected taxes.
Yes! Even if you have a will in place you still need to designate beneficiaries for your non-probate assets.
Yes! Gifts of any size go a long way for the cats. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
No. You can usually make these easily and at no cost to you.
Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
We’re here to help you meet your goals!
Our team would be happy to speak with you in confidence about your giving goals, with no obligation.
Already included us in your estate plan? Let us know
More ways to make an impact
Gifts in a will or trust
Donations in your will or trust are (by far) the most popular type of planned gift. Learn more, or get help starting your will (for free!).
Popular tax-smart gifts
Many people are increasingly choosing to give non-cash assets, so they can have a bigger impact at less cost to them.
Join the Thomas Society
By listing your name among those who have included the Tabby’s Place cats in their future plans, you will encourage others to follow your lead.