As Thanksgiving approaches, we gather around tables filled with gratitude — for faith, family, and the blessings that shape our lives. This season of thanks also invites us to reflect on what truly matters and how we can give back in lasting ways.
At the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania, we see this time of year as a moment to transform gratitude into generosity. By donating appreciated securities, giving through your IRA, or recommending a grant from your donor-advised fund, you can create an enduring legacy that supports your favorite Catholic parish, school, or ministry — while also receiving valuable tax benefits.
These gifts don’t just celebrate gratitude. They “Futureproof“ the faith and causes you cherish, ensuring they thrive for generations to come.
Ways to Give That Offer Tax Benefits
Here is a summary of ways to give and gain a tax benefit, too.
Gifts from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
This is a great way to help your favorite Catholic cause while reaping tax and other benefits. According to the Internal Revenue Service:
- IRA owners who are aged 70½ or over can transfer up to $100,000 directly to a charity tax-free each year.
- These qualified charitable distributions, or QCDs, are a wonderful way to give to charity before the end of the year.
- If you are 73 or older, a QCD counts toward your required minimum distribution (RMD) for the year.
Donating from your IRA to one of the endowment funds at the Catholic Foundation is an investment in the future of your favorite Catholic cause, while at the same time providing important financial benefits to you.
Contact your IRA administrator or financial planner soon, so there is enough time to make the transfer by the end of the year.
Stocks and Other Appreciated Securities
This method really stands out for its combination of philanthropy and financial savvy. By donating appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, you can:
- Save on taxes by avoiding the capital gains tax.
- Get an income tax deduction for your gift.
- Avoid having to give cash out of pocket.
- Get an opportunity to rebalance or diversify your investment portfolio.
Donating appreciated securities is streamlined and efficient. And with the help of your financial advisor and the Catholic Foundation, it’s easy.
Donor-Advised Fund Donations
The end of the year is a great time to make gifts from your donor-advised fund (DAF). If you already have a DAF through your financial advisor, then you know about the important tax benefits that come as a reward for making thoughtful charitable donations.
To make a gift from your IRA, Stocks, Appreciated Securities or Donor-Advised Funds, contact your fund administrator and grant to:
Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania
P.O. Box 1430
Allentown, PA 18105
Tax ID: 46-4060385