CONSIDERING YEAR-END CHARITABLE GIVING?
As we get closer to the end of the year, like many people, you may be considering your charitable contributions. If you wish to include the RAF, we are standing by to help. There are some new tax laws you may want to consider, put in place by H.R. 1, better known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”.
Universal Deduction
Starting in 2026, donors can deduct up to $1,000 (individuals) or $2,000 (couples) for cash charitable contributions, even without itemizing. Most taxpayers who take the standard tax deducation are affected by this change. This means that starting in 2026, your gift will qualify for a standard tax deduction, even if you don’t itemize.
High-income Itemizers
In 2026, major donors won’t receive credit for the first chunk of their giving, and their tax savings will drop from 37 cents to 35 cents per donated dollar.
The RAF is fortunate to have a deep bench of professional financial planning talent with several planned giving ideas to help you enjoy the advantage of tax benefits, while helping the RAF. These ideas will work for any of your favorite charities, and we invite you to learn more.
A great way to start is to contact RAF Texas/Montana Ambassador Steve Maus, CLU, MSFS, and Chartered Advisor of Philanthropy. Here’s how to reach him: smaus@theraf.org.
The RAF advises all parties to consult their own tax professionals to address their specific tax concerns or obligations.
Submitted on October 15, 2025