Tax law changes take effect on January 1, 2026, which may affect when your charitable gift has the most benefit.
If you itemize your taxes: make your charitable gift by December 31, 2025 to take advantage of current rules.
If you take the standard deduction: you may benefit from giving in early January 2026, when a new charitable deduction takes effect.
If you are unsure which applies to you, please check with your tax or financial advisor.
Note: This information is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not tax or legal advice. Always consult your professional advisor about your specific situation.
What’s Changing
- Starting in 2026, people who take the standard deduction will once again get a small charitable deduction — up to $1,000 for single filers or $2,000 for joint filers.
- People who itemize will need to give more before receiving a deduction, and their overall deduction value will be slightly reduced.
What This Means
- If you itemize, you may want to make your gift before December 31, 2025 to receive the most benefit under current rules.
- If you take the standard deduction, giving in early January 2026 may be better for you.
- If you are unsure which applies to you, your tax or financial advisor can help you decide what timing makes sense.
Simple Next Steps
- You can make a gift online or by mail at any time.
- Gifts of stock, IRA distributions, or donor-advised funds remain excellent ways to give.
- Our team is happy to help with transfer instructions or paperwork.
