Appreciated
Stock
(or Other Assets)
The
gift of an asset, often common stock or mutual fund shares, is a valuable way
to make a contribution to a charitable organization and receive tax benefits based
on the value of the asset(s).Suppose Richard and Terri in this example had 300
shares of XYZ Corporation that they purchased at $15 a share some years ago. The
current value in today's market is $36 a share. If they sold the stock in the
market, they would have a taxable, long-term capital gain on the difference between
their cost and what they would receive from the sale ($36 minus $15 = $21 capital
gain per share. 300 shares X $21.00 = $6,300 in capital gains).
Richard
and Terri could sell the stock, pay the tax on the
capital gain, and either keep or donate the proceeds.
If,
instead of selling the stock, they gave the 300
shares to their charity, they would not incur any
capital gains and would be able to deduct the current
value (300 shares X $36 = $10,800) as a charitable
gift. By donating the stock, the charity receives
more than it would receive if Richard and Terri
first sold the stock and then donated the proceeds
after deducting the capital gain taxes. Also, Richard
and Terri receive a greater tax deduction by giving
the stock directly to the charity and avoiding the
capital gain tax.
While
the gift of appreciated assets often involves stock, other marketable assets,
such as land, antiques, and homes, can be utilized as potential gifts with the
possibility of valuable tax benefits. However, these other assets are reviewed
on a case-by-case basis. For more information about gifts of appreciated assets,
please contact us so we can respond to your specific
needs.
Return
to Wills and Bequests - Pam Adams - or return to Charitable
Lead Trusts - Ted and Alicia.