The end of the year is a time for making gifts for many people, not only to family and friends, but also to valued organizations such as UUSC. December is also your last chance to make gifts in 2019 that can save taxes and support the important work of UUSC. 

As you plan your year-end giving, keep in mind that contributing cash is just one way to support UUSC. Consider these tax-smart techniques.

Give Appreciated Securities
The stock market, while cyclical, has hit some record highs in 2019.  While you have watched your investments grow, if you see these appreciated securities to lock in your gains, you will trigger capital gain eroding your net investment returns.  Transfer these appreciated securities directly to UUSC to enjoy a double tax benefit.  Avoid tax on the capital gain and receive an income tax charitable deduction for the fair market value of your stock.  The tax savings from your gift can make such a gift an easy and affordable gift.

Note: If you are interested in providing support for UUSC through a gift of securities worth less than you paid for them, you could sell them and contribute some or all of the cash proceeds. You can then use the loss on the sale to offset other income.

Help UUSC — And Yourself
You may hesitate to give an asset you depend on for income. Through a life income gift, you can make a gift now and receive payments for life or a term of years, perhaps even increasing your cash flow. In return, you’ll obtain a current income tax charitable deduction.  In addition, if you give appreciated property, you’ll reduce or delay capital gains taxation. And when the arrangement terminates, what remains from your gift benefits UUSC.

Consider an “Charitable Rollover” Gift from Your IRA
If you are over age 70½ and have a traditional IRA, you can take a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to make a gift of up to $100,000 directly to UUSC from your IRA. You are not taxed on the distribution from your IRA and the distribution to UUSC may satisfy all or part of your required minimum distribution.  Contact your IRA administrator and request the form required to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution.  Your administrator may have their own procedures to take advantage of this tax-smart way of giving. 

Start Planning Now
As always, your own advisors are in the best position to help you determine when and how to make to gift to UUSC. Remember, too; UUSC can work with you and your advisors at no cost to explore giving options or gather additional information.