The holiday season is a time for generosity, and for many, it’s also an opportunity to align their giving with their financial goals. Charitable contributions made before December 31 can not only support causes that matter to you but may also reduce your tax liability. 

Whether you prefer giving directly, through a donor-advised fund, or via Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), there are several effective ways to make your year-end donations both meaningful and strategic. 

• Choosing the Right Giving Vehicle: You don’t have to write a check to make an impact. Options like Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs, and direct stock donations can provide both flexibility and tax efficiency. A QCD, for example, allows individuals aged 70½ or older to donate up to $105,000 annually directly from an IRA to a qualified charity, satisfying Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) while avoiding taxable income.1 

• Appreciated Assets and Tax Advantages: Consider donating appreciated assets like stocks or mutual funds held for more than a year. By donating highly appreciated stocks or mutual funds directly to a charity, you can potentially avoid capital-gains tax and deduct the full fair-market value, often enabling you to give more effectively than selling the asset and donating the proceeds.2 

• Aligning Philanthropy with Your Broader Financial Plan: Philanthropy can be a cornerstone of long-term planning, and aligning your giving strategy with your wealth goals can amplify its impact. The National Philanthropic Trust reports that charitable giving in the U.S. exceeded $592 billion in 2024, with individual donors accounting for nearly two-thirds of contributions.3 Your Wedbush financial advisor can help you create a giving strategy that balances generosity with tax efficiency. 

Long-term care planning isn’t just about preparing for “what ifs”—it’s about maintaining control and flexibility for your future. By exploring options today, you’re protecting choice, comfort, and peace of mind. Your Wedbush Financial Advisor can help you create a plan that reflects your goals, family, and financial picture. 

Sources: 

[1] https://acl.gov/ltc/basic-needs/how-much-care-will-you-need 

[2] https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/giving-account/what-you-can-donate/donating-stock-to-charity.html 

[3] https://www.nptrust.org/philanthropic-resources/charitable-giving-statistics/ 

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