GIFTS OF APPRECIATED SECURITIES
(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 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, however,
instead of selling the stock, they gave the 300 shares to charity,
they would not incur any capital gains and would be able to
deduct the current value (300 shares X $36 = $10,800) on their
tax return as a charitable gift. By donating the stock, the
charity receives a larger gift 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 is 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 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 or to Charitable Lead Trust story.
Please note,
individual financial circumstances will vary. The information
on this site does not constitute legal or tax advice. As with
all tax and estate planning, please consult your attorney or
estate specialist. All material is copyrighted and is for viewing
purposes only. Use of this site signifies your agreement with
the terms of use. The content in this
Planned Giving section has been developed for Southern Connecticut
State University by Future
Focus.
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webmaster. Revised: December 9, 2008 8:46 .


