Maximize Your Impact: Your Way
Strategic giving isn’t just about taxes; it’s about aligning your values and resources to make the greatest difference. No matter how you give, thoughtful planning can help you maximize the impact of every gift, supporting the causes you care about most and creating meaningful, lasting change.
There are many ways to contribute each with unique benefits. Here’s how they compare:
GIVING METHOD | BENEFITS | CONSIDERATIONS |
|---|---|---|
ONE-TIME CASH GIFT | Simple & Immediate | Less tax benefit if not itemized |
MONTHLY GIVING | Predictable support for orgs, easy budgeting | Longer term commitment, track |
STOCK OR | Avoid capital gains tax, may offer larger tax deduction | Needs to be donated directly to |
DONOR ADVISED | Tax-efficient, flexible, centralized giving | Less personal unless paired with |
IRA CHARITABLE | Up to $108,000 can be given tax-free toward RMDs | Must go directly to nonprofit, |
PLANNED GIVING | Legacy impact, estate tax advantages | Requires legal/financial planning |
EMPLOYER | Doubles or triples your gift | Requires paperwork and employer participation |
TIPS
BUNCH DONATIONS:
Combine 2–3 years’ worth of giving into one year to exceed the standard deduction and maximize itemized deductions.
USE APPRECIATED ASSETS:
Stock or other assets can reduce capital gains taxes. For larger or year-end gifts, appreciated assets often create the greatest tax efficiency and impact.
PLAN QCDs:
For donors 73+, giving via IRA Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) can satisfy Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) requirements while reducing taxable income.
ENGAGE YOUR NETWORK:
Encourage family or friends to support causes collectively.
Tax Tips 2025
All gifts must be made by December 31, 2025 to count for the current tax year.
Looking Ahead:
Strategic Giving Before 2026
HIGHER TAX RATES COMING:
The top federal rate will rise from 37% to 39.6% in 2026.
→ Tip: Make larger or multi-year gifts in 2025 to take advantage of today’s lower rates.
DEDUCTION CAP CHANGE:
In 2026, the maximum charitable deduction drops from 37% to 35% of AGI for high earners.
→ Tip: Consider accelerating major gifts into 2025 to use the higher limit.
DEDUCTION FLOOR RETURNS:
Starting in 2026, deductions apply only to donations above 0.5% of AGI.
→ Tip: “Bunch” or front-load giving this year to exceed that floor.
NON-ITEMIZER DEDUCTION:
Beginning in 2026, non-itemizers can deduct up to $1,000 ($2,000 for couples) in cash donations.
→ Tip: Use 2025’s broader deduction flexibility while available.
Consult your tax advisor to tailor these strategies to your financial goals.