Stocks and Securities
Do you own stock or mutual fund shares that have increased in value?
Donating securities to the Epilepsy Foundation is a way to help us move closer to improving the lives of those living with epilepsy and ultimately finding a cure. Giving appreciated assets is one of the most tax-efficient ways to make charitable donations.
How you benefit:
Giving stock, bonds and mutual fund shares benefits you two ways. You could:
- Earn a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the securities.
- Avoid capital gains tax on securities that have increased in value (provided you have owned them for one year).
Stock and other securities can also offer guaranteed payments for life through a charitable gift annuity. Gift annuity rates can vary based upon your age. With many stocks and securities providing little or no dividends, this may be an ideal time to convert your long-term investments into a stream of higher payments. And, if you fund a gift annuity with appreciated securities or with cash, only a portion of your payment would be taxable.
If you transfer the shares before December 31st of the current calendar, you may claim the charitable deduction in the current year.
What's more, gifts of stock are surprisingly easy, safe and cost effective.Often, they require little more than a phone call to your stockbroker. Of course, your personal financial situation is unique, so you should be sure to talk to your financial advisor before making a gift of stock or securities.
For instructions for transferring stock or securities to the Epilepsy Foundation, please click here.
