Account Benefits
For many people, a personal financial plan is not complete until it includes charitable giving – not just an occasional donation to charity but a plan to “share the wealth.”
In many cases, the most cost-effective way to make a gift may be with appreciated assets that qualify for long-term capital gain treatment. This is so because:
- The donor may be able to deduct the full fair market or appraised value of the asset.
- The donor may be able to avoid the capital gains tax that would have otherwise been paid if the asset was sold and a gift made of the proceeds.
This strategy may be especially helpful if the donor has an opportunity to sell an asset, such as real estate or closely held stock in a business that has appreciated in value since its acquisition. If you are contemplating the sale of a business or a piece of property, you may consider making your charitable gift of stock or real estate before you enter into an agreement of sale.