How to Open a Foundation in Seychelles: The Definitive 2026 Guide

Opening a foundation in Seychelles is a strategic move for wealth preservation, asset protection, and estate planning. This guide explains the legal framework, registration process, and compliance requirements to establish a Seychelles foundation in 2026—tailored for investors and professionals seeking a tax-neutral, flexible structure.

Why Seychelles for Your Foundation in 2026?

Seychelles remains one of the most efficient jurisdictions for foundation formation due to its zero-tax regime, robust legal framework, and streamlined registration process. Unlike traditional trust structures, a Seychelles foundation (governed by the International Foundations Act 2009) provides legal personality, allowing it to hold assets, enter contracts, and sue or be sued independently. This makes it ideal for:

• Wealth preservation across generations
• Asset protection from creditors and lawsuits
• Estate planning without probate delays
• Philanthropic initiatives with global reach
• Succession planning for high-net-worth individuals

In 2026, Seychelles continues to enhance its reputation as a premier offshore jurisdiction, with no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax—critical advantages for international investors.

Core Concept: What Is a Seychelles Foundation?

A Seychelles foundation is a legal entity without shareholders, established to hold and manage assets for specified beneficiaries or purposes. Key characteristics:

• No owners or members—only a founder, council, and beneficiaries (or purpose)
• Perpetual existence—unaffected by changes in council members
• Confidential structure—beneficial ownership details are not public
• Tax-exempt—on foreign-sourced income and capital gains
• Flexible governance—can be tailored to civil or common law traditions

How a Seychelles Foundation Differs from Other Structures

Bottom line: If you need a standalone legal entity for asset management, estate planning, or philanthropy without shareholders or tax liabilities, a Seychelles foundation is the optimal choice.

How to Open a Foundation in Seychelles: Step-by-Step Process (2026)

Step 1: Determine Your Foundation’s Purpose

Before registering, define the foundation’s objectives. Seychelles allows foundations for:

• Private interest (family wealth preservation)
• Charitable or social purposes (philanthropy, education)
• Mixed purposes (blend of private and public benefit)

Critical: The purpose must be lawful, specific, and not contrary to public policy. Vague objectives (e.g., “general wealth management”) will be rejected by the Registrar of Foundations.

Step 2: Select the Foundation Type

Seychelles offers two foundation structures:

1. Private Interest Foundation (PIF) – For family wealth management, estate planning, or asset protection.
2. Public Benefit Foundation (PBF) – For charitable, religious, or social causes.

Which should you choose?

• PIF if the goal is family succession, creditor protection, or tax efficiency.
• PBF if the foundation will donate to public causes (e.g., scholarships, medical research).

Step 3: Draft the Foundation Charter and Bylaws

The charter is the foundation’s constitutional document, analogous to a memorandum of association. It must include:

• Name (must end with “Foundation” or “Fondation”)
• Purpose (clearly defined)
• Initial assets (minimum USD 1—no maximum)
• Council members (at least one, who can be a corporate entity)
• Beneficiaries (or “purpose” if non-charitable)
• Duration (can be perpetual or fixed-term)

Bylaws (internal rules) are optional but recommended for governance details (e.g., council powers, beneficiary rights, distribution rules).

Step 4: Appoint a Registered Agent in Seychelles

Seychelles law mandates that all foundations appoint a licensed registered agent (like Seychelles Incorporate) to:

• File documents with the Registrar of Foundations
• Maintain registered office in Seychelles
• Ensure compliance with AML/CFT regulations
• Act as a liaison for government authorities

Note: The agent must be licensed by the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA).

Step 5: Submit Registration Documents

To open a foundation in Seychelles, file the following with the Registrar:

1. Application form (provided by your agent)
2. Foundation Charter (signed by the founder)
3. Certificate of Incumbency (for corporate council members)
4. Proof of identity (for individual council members)
5. AML/KYC documentation (for all parties)
6. Payment of fees (see cost breakdown below)

Processing time: 1-3 business days (expedited options available).

Step 6: Obtain the Certificate of Registration

Once approved, the Registrar issues a Certificate of Registration, confirming the foundation’s legal existence. The foundation can then:

• Open a multicurrency bank account (Seychelles or offshore)
• Hold assets (real estate, shares, intellectual property)
• Enter contracts
• Operate globally tax-free (if foreign-sourced income)

Step 7: Post-Registration Compliance

Seychelles foundations must adhere to ongoing obligations:

• Annual filing (Foundation Charter remains valid unless amended)
• AML/CFT compliance (submit suspicious activity reports if required)
• No tax filings (since foreign income is tax-exempt)
• Council record-keeping (minutes, financial statements must be maintained)

Failure to comply can result in fines or deregistration.

Key Advantages of a Seychelles Foundation in 2026

1. Tax Efficiency

• No income tax on foreign-sourced profits
• No capital gains tax on asset sales
• No inheritance tax (assets pass seamlessly to beneficiaries)
• No VAT or GST on international transactions

2. Asset Protection

• Creditor shield – Assets are not part of the founder’s estate
• Divorce protection – Foundation assets are separate from marital property
• Legal separation – Founder’s personal creditors cannot claim foundation assets

3. Estate Planning Simplicity

• Avoids probate – Assets transfer immediately upon founder’s death
• Controlled succession – Founder sets specific distribution rules
• Multi-generational planning – Beneficiaries can be future generations

4. Confidentiality & Privacy

• No public disclosure of beneficial ownership
• No requirements to file accounts publicly
• Discretion in beneficiary designations

5. Global Recognition & Banking

• Accepted by major banks (HSBC, Standard Chartered, offshore banks)
• No FATCA/CRS reporting (if structured correctly)
• EU and OECD compliant (no blacklisting risks)

Costs and Timeline to Open a Foundation in Seychelles (2026)

Timeline:

• Registration: 1-3 business days
• Full setup (including bank account): 2-4 weeks

Note: Expedited services (24-hour registration) may incur additional fees.

Common Pitfalls When Opening a Foundation in Seychelles

1. Vague Purpose in Charter

   • Risk: Rejection by the Registrar.
   • Fix: Define purpose specifically (e.g., “to provide education grants to children of [Founder’s Name]”).

2. Inadequate AML/KYC Documentation

   • Risk: Delays or rejection.
   • Fix: Provide full identity proofs for all council members and beneficiaries.

3. Choosing an Unlicensed Registered Agent

   • Risk: Foundation may be deemed non-compliant.
   • Fix: Only work with FSA-licensed agents (like Seychelles Incorporate).

4. Ignoring Post-Registration Obligations

   • Risk: Fines or deregistration.
   • Fix: Schedule annual compliance reviews with your agent.

5. Mixing Private and Charitable Purposes Improperly

   • Risk: Loss of tax-exempt status.
   • Fix: If mixed purposes, register as a Private Interest Foundation and allocate a separate PBF for charitable work.

Final Checklist: How to Open a Foundation in Seychelles Successfully

✅ Define the foundation’s purpose (private, charitable, or mixed) ✅ Choose between PIF or PBF (based on objectives) ✅ Draft a clear, compliant charter (avoid vague language) ✅ Appoint a licensed registered agent (FSA-approved) ✅ Gather AML/KYC documents (passports, proof of address) ✅ File with the Registrar of Foundations (1-3 day approval) ✅ Open a bank account (multicurrency, tax-efficient) ✅ Set up governance (bylaws, council structure) ✅ Schedule annual compliance (filings, reviews)

Next Steps: Open Your Seychelles Foundation in 2026

Seychelles remains the gold standard for foundation formation due to its speed, tax efficiency, and asset protection. Whether you’re securing family wealth, planning an estate, or launching a philanthropic initiative, a Seychelles foundation offers unmatched flexibility and security.

Ready to proceed? Contact Seychelles Incorporate today for a no-obligation consultation on how to open a foundation in Seychelles. Our FSA-licensed team handles end-to-end setup, ensuring full compliance and maximum privacy.

How to Open a Foundation in Seychelles: A 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Why Seychelles for Your Foundation in 2026?

Seychelles remains the premier jurisdiction for international foundations due to its zero taxation, asset protection, and flexible regulatory framework. Unlike traditional trusts, a Seychelles Private Interest Foundation (PIF) offers permanent legal separation of assets from founders, beneficiaries, and council members—ensuring long-term control and privacy. As of 2026, the Seychelles government has further streamlined the how to open a foundation in Seychelles process, reducing setup time to 5–7 business days with minimal bureaucratic friction.

Key advantages for 2026:

• No income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes for non-Seychelles assets
• No disclosure of beneficiaries to public records
• Fast incorporation with same-day name approval in most cases
• Banking-friendly—foundations can open accounts globally, including in offshore hubs like Singapore, UAE, and Malta

Step 1: Determine the Foundation’s Structure and Purpose

Before initiating the how to open a foundation in Seychelles process, decide on two critical elements:

1. Type of Foundation

   • Private Interest Foundation (PIF): Designed for asset protection, estate planning, or family wealth management. Beneficiaries are private individuals.
   • Special License Foundation (SLF): Intended for commercial activities (e.g., investment holding). Requires a Seychelles International Business Company (IBC) license if engaging in regulated business.

2. Founder and Beneficiary Framework

   • Founder: Can be an individual or corporate entity (no residency requirement).
   • Beneficiaries: Must be clearly defined but not disclosed in public filings.
   • Council Members: Minimum one natural person or corporate director (residency irrelevant).
   • Protector (Optional): Adds an additional layer of oversight (e.g., for succession planning).

Note: If the foundation will hold real estate in Seychelles, additional Registry of Deeds compliance is required.

Step 2: Reserve a Unique Foundation Name

Seychelles enforces strict naming conventions to prevent conflicts. The how to open a foundation in Seychelles process begins with name reservation:

• Must include one of the following suffixes:
  • Foundation
  • Stiftung
  • Fondation
  • Stichting
• Cannot include words implying banking, insurance, or governmental affiliation unless licensed.
• Name check: Conducted via the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) database. Approval typically takes 24 hours.

Pro Tip: Avoid generic names (e.g., “XYZ Foundation”). A unique, brandable name speeds up approval and enhances credibility.

Step 3: Draft the Foundation Charter and By-Laws

The Foundation Charter (equivalent to Articles of Incorporation) is the legal backbone of your foundation. It must include:

Key Consideration: The how to open a foundation in Seychelles process hinges on a well-drafted charter. Ambiguity in beneficiary rights or council powers can lead to legal challenges. Work with a licensed Seychelles agent to ensure compliance.

Step 4: Appoint a Registered Agent and Registered Office

Seychelles requires all foundations to appoint a licensed registered agent and maintain a physical registered office in Seychelles. This agent will:

• File incorporation documents with the FSA
• Act as the official point of contact for government communications
• Ensure annual compliance filings

Cost Breakdown (2026):

Warning: Avoid unlicensed agents. Only FSA-approved registered agents can legally handle your foundation’s incorporation.

Step 5: Submit Incorporation Documents to the FSA

Once the charter is finalized, the how to open a foundation in Seychelles process moves to formal submission. Required documents include:

1. Application Form (FSA-prescribed)
2. Foundation Charter (notarized if founder is corporate)
3. Proof of Identity for all council members (passport, utility bill, bank reference)
4. Proof of Address for the registered office
5. Payment of Fees (incorporation + registered agent)

Processing Time:

• Expedited: 3–5 business days (USD 500 surcharge)
• Standard: 5–7 business days

Post-Approval: The FSA issues a Certificate of Incorporation, marking the foundation’s legal existence.

Step 6: Open a Bank Account for the Foundation

A Seychelles foundation cannot operate without a bank account. Key considerations for 2026:

Banking Options

Required Documents for Banking

1. Certificate of Incorporation
2. Foundation Charter
3. Council Resolution (authorizing account opening)
4. Proof of Beneficial Ownership (for AML compliance)
5. Business Plan (for commercial foundations)

2026 Update: Banks now require enhanced due diligence for foundations with beneficiaries in high-risk jurisdictions. Transparency is critical.

Step 7: Compliance and Ongoing Obligations

Seychelles foundations must adhere to strict annual compliance to maintain good standing:

Penalty for Non-Compliance:

• Fines up to USD 5,000
• Strike-off from the FSA registry (leading to asset freeze)

Tax Implications for 2026

Seychelles foundations enjoy zero taxation on:

• Foreign-sourced income
• Capital gains
• Dividends and interest
• Inheritance distributions

Key Tax Considerations:

• No double taxation treaties with major economies (unlike IBCs).
• Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) rules in the EU/US may apply if the foundation is deemed a taxable entity in the founder’s jurisdiction.
• Bank reporting: CRS/FATCA compliance requires disclosing accounts held by Seychelles foundations to the founder’s tax authority.

Action Step: Consult a cross-border tax advisor to optimize the foundation’s structure for your home country’s laws.

Banking Compatibility in 2026

Seychelles foundations are highly bankable globally, but challenges persist:

Best Banking Jurisdictions for Seychelles Foundations

1. Singapore – Preferred for Asian wealth management (requires substance proof).
2. United Arab Emirates – No currency restrictions, strong privacy laws.
3. Switzerland – High credibility but strict KYC (requires family office setup).
4. Malta – EU-compliant, good for inheritance planning.
5. Panama – Fast account opening, but high minimum deposits.

Banks to Avoid

• US Banks (e.g., Chase, Wells Fargo): High scrutiny due to FATCA.
• UK Banks (e.g., HSBC, Barclays): May classify foundations as “trusts,” triggering tax reporting.
• Offshore Banks in High-Risk Jurisdictions: May face regulatory crackdowns.

Pro Strategy: Open accounts before transferring significant assets to avoid red flags.

Common Pitfalls When Learning How to Open a Foundation in Seychelles

1. Vague Purpose in Charter

   • Issue: FSA may reject broad statements like “general wealth management.”
   • Fix: Specify exact purposes (e.g., “to hold shares in ABC Corp for beneficiary X”).

2. Missing Protector Clause

   • Issue: Without a protector, beneficiaries may struggle to enforce rights.
   • Fix: Include a discretionary protector for succession control.

3. Inadequate Due Diligence on Council Members

   • Issue: Banks may reject applications if council members have poor credit history.
   • Fix: Use corporate directors (e.g., a Seychelles IBC) for anonymity.

4. Ignoring AML Requirements

   • Issue: Banks may freeze accounts if transactions lack clear documentation.
   • Fix: Maintain a transaction log and justify all movements.

5. Choosing the Wrong Registered Agent

   • Issue: Unlicensed agents may file incorrect documents, leading to delays.
   • Fix: Verify FSA registration before engaging.

Cost Breakdown for 2026

Total Estimated Cost (1st Year): $2,700–$8,650 Annual Recurring Cost: $500–$1,000

Final Checklist Before Submitting Your Application

✅ Foundation Charter drafted and reviewed by a Seychelles lawyer ✅ Registered Agent selected and FSA-licensed ✅ Council Members identified (at least one natural person) ✅ Beneficiary Framework clearly defined (avoid discretionary language) ✅ Bank Account pre-approved (or application submitted) ✅ Initial Assets deposited (minimum USD 1) ✅ AML/KYC Documents prepared for banks

Next Steps: Launching Your Seychelles Foundation

Once incorporated, your foundation can:

1. Hold assets (shares, real estate, cash, IP)
2. Distribute benefits to beneficiaries (via council resolution)
3. Expand globally with tax-efficient structuring

Action Plan:

1. Day 1: Reserve name + select agent.
2. Day 3: Draft charter + open bank account (parallel process).
3. Day 5: Submit to FSA + finalize compliance setup.
4. Day 7: Receive Certificate of Incorporation + begin operations.

Why Trust Seychelles Incorporate for Your Foundation?

At seychellesincorporate.com, we specialize in turnkey Seychelles foundations with:

• Same-day name approval (in most cases)
• FSA-licensed registered agents with 10+ years of experience
• Banks pre-approved for Seychelles foundations
• 24/7 compliance support to avoid penalties

Ready to proceed? [Contact us today] to begin the how to open a foundation in Seychelles process with zero hassle.

Advanced Considerations for Your Seychelles Foundation

Asset Protection & Legal Risks in Seychelles Foundations

When you open a foundation in Seychelles, the primary risk lies in improper structuring. A foundation is not a company—it does not have shareholders or directors, and its assets are irrevocably transferred to the foundation’s purpose. If misclassified as a company, it may face regulatory scrutiny under the Seychelles Foundation Act 2009. Always engage a licensed Seychelles registration agent to ensure compliance with the International Foundations Act and avoid reclassification risks.

Another critical risk is fraudulent conveyance. If a foundation is established to defraud creditors, Seychelles courts may invalidate the transfer of assets under the Fraudulent Transfer Act. This is particularly relevant for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) transferring wealth offshore. To mitigate this, ensure the foundation is established with a legitimate, non-fraudulent purpose documented in the foundation charter.

Tax residency is another grey area. While Seychelles foundations are tax-exempt, global tax authorities (e.g., CRS jurisdictions) may challenge your foundation’s residency if it lacks economic substance. The Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC) requires foundations to have a registered agent and a physical presence (even if minimal) in Seychelles. Failure to maintain this can lead to tax reporting obligations in your home jurisdiction.

Common Mistakes When You Open a Foundation in Seyychelles

1. Misunderstanding the Foundation’s Purpose The most frequent error is failing to define a specific, lawful purpose in the foundation charter. Vague statements like “general asset protection” are insufficient. Seychelles law requires a clear, enforceable objective (e.g., “to hold shares in XYZ Corporation for the benefit of beneficiaries named in Schedule A”). If the purpose is too broad, the foundation may be deemed invalid by the Registrar of Foundations.

2. Improper Beneficiary Designation Foundations do not have owners, but they must have ascertainable beneficiaries (or a class of beneficiaries) who can enforce the foundation’s terms. Many applicants mistakenly list “discretionary beneficiaries” without defining how distributions will be determined. This creates enforceability issues. Instead, use objective criteria (e.g., “distributions to children of Beneficiary A upon reaching age 25”).

3. Ignoring the 21-Year Rule Seychelles foundations automatically terminate 21 years after their establishment unless extended. Many founders overlook this and fail to renew the foundation’s term before expiration. To avoid dissolution, include a renewal clause in the foundation charter or file an extension with the Registrar before the 21-year mark.

4. Overlooking Beneficial Ownership Disclosure While Seychelles foundations are private, beneficial ownership regulations still apply under the Economic Substance Act 2020. If your foundation holds assets in regulated industries (e.g., banking, insurance), you must disclose ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). Non-compliance can result in fines or forced dissolution.

5. Choosing the Wrong Jurisdiction for Assets Seychelles foundations are ideal for holding shares in offshore companies, real estate, or intellectual property, but not for assets subject to local taxation (e.g., US real estate or EU bank accounts). Placing such assets in a Seychelles foundation can trigger unexpected tax liabilities. Always consult a tax advisor before asset placement.

Advanced Structuring Strategies for Seychelles Foundations

Hybrid Foundation-Trust Structures

For ultra-HNWIs, combining a Seychelles foundation with a private trust company (PTC) can enhance control while maintaining asset protection. The foundation holds the PTC as its council member, allowing family members to serve as directors without direct ownership. This structure:

• Avoids probate for assets held in the foundation.
• Provides perpetual succession (unlike a trust, which may expire).
• Allows for discretionary distributions via the PTC.

Multi-Jurisdictional Asset Segregation

If you open a foundation in Seychelles but hold assets in multiple jurisdictions (e.g., Singapore, Dubai, or the Cayman Islands), use separate foundation sub-funds under the main foundation. Each sub-fund can be governed by the laws of its asset’s jurisdiction while remaining under the Seychelles foundation’s umbrella. This:

• Simplifies tax reporting (each sub-fund’s income is taxed locally).
• Reduces regulatory overlap (e.g., a Singapore sub-fund adheres to MAS rules).
• Maintains a single point of control via the Seychelles foundation council.

Philanthropic Foundations with Tax Optimization

For charitable purposes, a Seychelles foundation can qualify for tax-exempt status in the US (via a 501(c)(3) equivalency letter) or EU jurisdictions. To maximize tax benefits:

• Register as a public benefit foundation (not a private foundation).
• Document charitable activities in the foundation charter (e.g., “distributions to orphanages in Africa”).
• File for double-taxation treaty benefits if the foundation’s beneficiaries are in treaty countries.

Litigation Shielding Strategies

Seychelles foundations are judgment-proof in most jurisdictions, but creditors can still challenge transfers if:

• The foundation was established after a legal dispute arose (fraudulent conveyance).
• The foundation’s council members breached fiduciary duties (e.g., improper distributions). To strengthen asset protection:
• Pre-fund the foundation before any legal threats emerge.
• Use a protector clause (a third-party advisor with veto power over distributions).
• Place assets in non-publicly traded entities (e.g., a BVI LLC owned by the foundation) to obscure ownership.

FAQ: How to Open a Foundation in Seychelles

1. How long does it take to open a foundation in Seychelles?

Typically 5–10 business days once all required documents are submitted. The process includes:

• Drafting the foundation charter and by-laws.
• Registering with the Registrar of Foundations.
• Obtaining a certificate of registration. Delays occur if the foundation’s purpose is unclear or beneficial ownership disclosures are incomplete. Expedited registration (2–3 days) is available for an additional fee.

2. Can I remain anonymous when I open a foundation in Seychelles?

Yes, but not fully. While the foundation’s details are private (not publicly disclosed), Seychelles requires:

• A registered agent (disclosed to authorities).
• Beneficial ownership information (shared with regulators under CRS/FATCA).
• Council members (names and addresses must be on file with the Registrar). If absolute anonymity is critical, consider a foundation owned by a trust or another foundation in a different jurisdiction (e.g., Panama or Nevis).

3. What are the ongoing compliance requirements after opening a foundation in Seychelles?

After registration, Seychelles foundations must:

• File an annual return (due by January 31 each year).
• Maintain a registered agent (failure to do so risks dissolution).
• Keep accounting records (must be available for inspection by authorities).
• File beneficial ownership updates if changes occur. No tax filings are required (foundations are tax-exempt), but global tax reporting (e.g., CRS, FATCA) may apply depending on your jurisdiction.

4. Can a Seychelles foundation own real estate?

Yes, but with restrictions:

• No Seychelles property: Foundations cannot own real estate in Seychelles.
• Foreign property: Permitted, but consider:
  • Local tax implications (e.g., US property may trigger estate tax).
  • Asset protection limits (some jurisdictions invalidate transfers to offshore entities).
• Optimal structure: Hold property via a foreign LLC owned by the foundation to simplify inheritance and avoid forced heirship rules.

5. What happens if the foundation’s 21-year term expires?

The foundation automatically dissolves unless:

• A renewal clause was included in the charter (extending the term).
• You file a formal extension with the Registrar before expiration.
• The council members voluntarily wind up the foundation. Best practice: Include a perpetual succession clause in the charter to avoid dissolution risks. If the foundation is dissolved, assets revert to the founder (unless a residual beneficiary is named).

6. Can I change the foundation’s purpose after opening it in Seychelles?

Only if the foundation charter allows amendments. To change the purpose:

1. Unanimous council approval is required.
2. Beneficiary consent (if beneficiaries have enforceable rights).
3. Registrar approval (must be notified within 30 days). Warning: Amending the purpose may trigger tax or regulatory reviews in your home country. Consult a tax advisor before making changes.

7. Are Seychelles foundations recognized in the EU or US?

Recognition varies:

• EU: Generally respected, but some countries (e.g., France, Germany) may challenge the foundation’s tax status under ATAD 3 (anti-tax avoidance directive).
• US: Not automatically recognized as a tax-exempt entity. To qualify for 501(c)(3) equivalency, the foundation must:
  • Operate exclusively for charitable purposes.
  • File IRS Form 8971 (if distributing to US beneficiaries).
• Offshore jurisdictions: Fully recognized in BVI, Cayman Islands, and UAE for asset protection.

8. How much does it cost to open and maintain a Seychelles foundation?

Note: Costs increase if the foundation holds complex assets (e.g., multiple subsidiaries, real estate). Always request a fixed-fee quote from your registration agent to avoid hidden charges.

9. Can a Seychelles foundation be used for estate planning?

Yes, and it’s a superior alternative to a will for several reasons:

• Avoids probate: Assets transfer directly to beneficiaries.
• Perpetual succession: No expiration (unlike a trust).
• Control: The founder can name a protector to oversee distributions.
• Tax efficiency: No inheritance or estate tax in Seychelles. Best for: High-net-worth individuals with assets in multiple jurisdictions, family businesses, or complex estate structures.

10. What’s the difference between a Seychelles IBC and a foundation?

Use an IBC for: Operating businesses, trading, or holding assets subject to corporate tax. Use a foundation for: Protecting family wealth, avoiding probate, or charitable giving.