What is a charitable remainder trust?

A charitable remainder trust lets you donate assets to charity while still receiving income from them for a set period or for life. You or your chosen beneficiaries collect payments, and whatever remains when the trust ends goes to the charity. It can provide an upfront tax deduction, let you sell appreciated assets without an immediate capital gains hit, and support a cause you care about. It's most useful for people with highly appreciated assets like stock or real estate.