One of the most tax-efficient ways to give is by contributing long-term appreciated securities, like stocks. There are two huge advantages to donating in this way. One, since you are not selling your stocks, there are no capital gains taxes to be concerned with, and the more appreciation the stocks have, the bigger your tax savings will be. The second advantage is that any of your stocks that were purchased over a year ago that have a current value greater than their original cost can be donated and become eligible for a tax deduction equal to the full fair market value of the stock, up to 30 percent of your adjusted gross income.
Charitable giving is one way that many people elect to support a specific cause or organization that is close to their heart. From a financial standpoint, charitable giving can be an important part of your estate, tax, and financial planning.