Skip to main content

We’ve updated our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. By using this site, you agree to these terms.

Thinking of donating stock as a charitable giving option? The best strategy depends on whether the stock has increased or decreased in value since you bought it and whether you’ve owned it for more than a year.

Here are a few things to know about giving stock to a nonprofit organization, like Geisinger, to get the maximum tax break:

1. Giving appreciated stock you’ve held for more than a year is better than giving cash.

If you donate stock that has increased in value since you bought it (more than a year ago), and if you itemize deductions on your income tax return, you can take a charitable deduction for the stock’s fair market value on the day you give it away. You’ll also avoid capital gains taxes on the increase in value over time, which you would have had to pay if you sold the stock then gave the organization the cash proceeds. (If you’ve held it for less than a year, your deduction is limited to your cost basis — what you paid for the stock — not the current value.)

2. If it’s a losing stock, it’s better to sell it and give the cash.

You’ll still be able to deduct your charitable donation if you itemize, but you’ll also be able to take a capital loss when you sell the investment.

To see how you can have a bigger impact on the health and well-being of people in our community and make a more tax-efficient gift, contact Robin L. Endicott, CFRE at 570-214-9267 or rendicott@geisinger.edu
Hand holding money wrapped present

Questions or suggestions? Give us a call at 570-214-2438 or email us at SilverCircle@geisinger.edu
Content from General Links with modal content