Top Year-End Giving Strategies from Greater Houston Community Foundation
At Greater Houston Community Foundation, it is our privilege to partner with individuals, families, and businesses who are committed to strengthening our region through thoughtful philanthropy. As you prepare for year-end giving, we’ve gathered key tips to help you make the most of 2025’s unique charitable planning landscape.
Smart Year-End Giving Strategies for 2025
Take advantage of 2025’s favorable tax environment.
With charitable deduction limitations scheduled to return in 2026, this year offers important planning opportunities. Connect with your tax advisor early to understand how the sunsetting provisions may affect you.
Consider accelerating charitable giving into 2025.
By shifting future gifts into this year—especially through contributions to a donor advised fund (DAF) at the Community Foundation—you may be able to maximize your 2025 deduction and position your philanthropy strategically ahead of tax law changes.
Use your DAF to simplify giving.
Contribute to your DAF now, claim the 2025 deduction, and then recommend grants to nonprofits on your own timeline, throughout 2026 and beyond.
Donate appreciated securities.
Giving long-term appreciated stock to your DAF at the Community Foundation can help you avoid capital gains tax and increase your charitable impact. Initiate these transfers early to ensure timely processing.
Explore Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).
If you are age 70½ or older, a QCD—up to $108,000 per taxpayer in 2025—can reduce taxable income and satisfy required minimum distributions. QCDs can be directed to many Community Foundation giving vehicles like field of interest and designated funds, though not to donor advised funds.
Review your beneficiary designations.
Naming your DAF as a beneficiary of an IRA or other retirement assets can reduce taxes for heirs while creating a significant future gift to the community.
Revisit your overall charitable plan.
Changing tax laws, family priorities, and financial circumstances make this an ideal time to update your philanthropic and legacy plans.
Partnering with You for Impactful Philanthropy
At the Community Foundation, we are honored to be your partner in philanthropy. Our team is here to walk alongside you—listening carefully, understanding your goals, and helping you give with confidence and purpose. Whether you’re planning year-end gifts, refining a long-term strategy, or navigating complex assets, we collaborate seamlessly with your financial, legal, and tax advisors to ensure your charitable giving aligns with your broader financial plans.
Thank you for the trust you place in us. We look forward to supporting your unique charitable vision and helping you create meaningful impact in Houston and beyond for many years to come. Contact us today to see how we can make your charitable vision a reality.
More Helpful Articles by Greater Houston Community Foundation:
- Year-End Giving Deadlines: Your 2025 Tax-Planning Checklist
- Incorporating Charitable Giving into Your Investment Strategy
- High-Net-Worth Philanthropy for HNW Individuals and Families
- Investing in Futures: Launch of the Houston Opportunity Scholarship
- Amplified Giving for the Future: 30 Years of Learning and Leading Together
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