Tax Law Changes in 2026: What Donors Need to Know
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New federal tax law changes took effect on January 1, 2026, and they affect how charitable gifts are treated on your tax return. While the heart of charitable giving hasn’t changed, the strategy behind giving wisely has.
A Deduction for Donors Who Don’t Itemize
Most taxpayers take the standard deduction — and now they can still receive a tax benefit for giving. In 2026, individuals may deduct up to $1,000 and married couples up to $2,000 in cash gifts to Samaritan Community Center and other qualified charities without itemizing.
A New Threshold for Itemizers
If you itemize deductions, charitable gifts are deductible only after they exceed 0.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). For example, with a $100,000 AGI, the first $500 of donations is not deductible.
Slightly Smaller Tax Benefit for High Earners
For taxpayers in the top bracket, the value of a charitable deduction is now capped at 35 cents per dollar, slightly lower than in prior years.
A Big Opportunity for Donors Age 70½ and Older
If you are 70½ or older, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) remains one of the most tax-efficient ways to give to Samaritan Community Center. A QCD allows you to donate directly from your IRA to a qualified charity — up to $100,000 per year — without that distribution counting as taxable income. It can satisfy required minimum distributions, lower taxable income, and works whether or not you itemize.
Why Appreciated Assets Matter More Than Ever
Donating appreciated assets to Samaritan Community Center — such as stocks or mutual funds you’ve owned for more than a year — can be one of the most powerful giving strategies available. When you give appreciated stock instead of cash, you may avoid paying capital gains taxes, may still receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value, and the charity can sell the asset and use 100% of the proceeds for its mission. Contact us at generosity@samcc.org to learn more.
Smart Giving Strategies for 2026
· Use the new universal deduction if you don’t itemize.
· Consider bunching donations for 2026 and 2027 into one year to exceed the AGI threshold if you itemize.
· If you are 70 ½ or older, consider giving a Qualified Charitable Distribution from your IRA.
· Include appreciated assets like stocks in your giving plan and avoid capital gains taxes.
· Talk with a tax or financial advisor before making extremely large gifts.
Your Giving Makes a Difference
Your generosity fuels the work happening every day at Samaritan Community Center — feeding families, caring for neighbors, and strengthening our community. If you’re considering a gift in 2026 — whether cash, stock, or a QCD — we’re happy to help you explore the option that makes the most sense for you.