Year-End Giving Strategies: How to Make Your Charitable Dollars Go Further

As the year winds down, many people begin thinking about giving back. The holidays remind us of gratitude, community, and generosity, and year-end giving is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference. But did you know that with the right strategies, your charitable dollars can go even further — helping families in need while also providing you with meaningful tax benefits?

At LegacyPath Foundation, we want your giving to not only touch lives today but also create lasting impact for tomorrow. Here are some smart strategies to maximize your generosity before the year closes:

1. Take Advantage of Charitable Tax Deductions

When you donate to a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit like LegacyPath Foundation, your contributions may be tax-deductible. That means you can reduce your taxable income while directly supporting families in need. Keep your donation receipts, and if you itemize your deductions, make sure to include your charitable gifts.

2. Consider Donating Appreciated Assets

Did you know you can donate stocks, mutual funds, or other appreciated assets directly to nonprofits? By doing so, you can avoid paying capital gains taxes while still receiving a charitable deduction for the fair market value. This strategy lets you give more without increasing out-of-pocket costs.

3. Bundle Donations for Greater Impact

With the higher standard deduction, some donors choose to “bundle” several years’ worth of charitable gifts into one year. By concentrating your giving, you may exceed the threshold for itemized deductions, allowing you to maximize both your tax benefits and your impact.

4. Don’t Forget About Employer Matching Gifts

Many companies offer matching gift programs where they’ll match your donation to a nonprofit. This is an easy way to double — or even triple — the effect of your giving at no extra cost to you. Check with your HR department to see if your employer participates.

5. Give Before December 31st

Timing is everything. To receive a deduction on your 2025 tax return, donations must be made by December 31, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute — setting aside time now ensures your gift is counted for this tax year.

6. Use a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) for Flexibility

A donor-advised fund is like a charitable investment account that allows you to make a tax-deductible donation now, but recommend grants to nonprofits over time. By contributing to a DAF before year-end, you lock in your charitable deduction for 2025, even if you decide later which organizations to support. This strategy offers flexibility, tax efficiency, and the ability to plan your giving thoughtfully.

Why Year-End Giving Matters

Year-end donations aren’t just about financial planning. They’re about hope, love, and legacy. Your generosity helps us continue our mission of supporting families during their most difficult times — preserving memories, providing relief, and ensuring legacies are carried forward.

Ready to Make Your Gift?

Your donation to LegacyPath Foundation creates ripples of impact far beyond the holiday season. Together, we can carry legacies forward and give families the support they need when it matters most.

👉 Donate Today and make your charitable dollars count this year.

LegacyPath Foundation: Because every story deserves to be remembered, and every family deserves to feel supported.

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