When you think about making a charitable gift, writing a check or using a credit card probably comes to mind first. But did you know there are other ways to support the causes you care about?
Depending on your financial situation, giving assets such as stocks, real estate, or business interests may offer tax advantages while helping you make a meaningful difference in your community.
Giving Appreciated Stock
If you own stocks that have increased in value, giving those shares directly to a qualified charity may be more beneficial than selling them and donating the proceeds.
Why? When you sell appreciated stock, you may owe capital gains taxes on the increase in value. By transferring eligible shares directly to charity, you can generally avoid recognizing that gain and may qualify for a charitable income tax deduction, subject to applicable rules.
This can be a valuable option for people who want to support their favorite causes while making thoughtful financial decisions.
Giving Real Estate
Real estate can also be used to make a charitable gift.
Whether it’s a piece of land, a vacation property, or another type of real estate, donating property may allow you to support charitable causes without first selling the asset yourself.
These gifts require additional planning, and not every property can be accepted. Working with your financial and legal advisors, along with the community foundation, can help you understand the process and determine whether this option makes sense for you.
Other Assets Can Make a Difference, Too
In some situations, closely held business interests and other noncash assets may also be used for charitable giving.
These gifts can be more complex, but they may create opportunities to support the organizations and causes that matter most to you.
The important thing is to explore your options before selling or transferring an asset. Once a sale is complete, certain charitable planning opportunities may no longer be available.
Choosing the Right Way to Give
There isn’t one giving method that’s right for everyone.
Your financial circumstances, charitable goals, and the type of assets you own all play a role in determining which approach makes the most sense.
Crawford Heritage Community Foundation can work alongside your financial advisor, CPA, or attorney to help you explore charitable giving options.
Whether you’re considering a gift of cash, stock, real estate, or another asset, a conversation today could help you make a greater impact tomorrow.
Let’s Talk About Your Charitable Goals
You are always welcome to reach out if you would like to talk about how the Community Foundation can support your charitable goals. We have helped many generous people plan meaningful gifts that create lasting impact in our region. Integrity is central to our work. We take your trust seriously and treat every conversation and plan with the highest level of confidentiality.
If you would like to explore options, discuss your vision, or simply ask questions, please contact:
Christian Maher, Executive Director
executive@crawfordheritage.org
814-336-5206