Savvy Ways to Stretch Your Giving
Whether you’re shopping, investing, or donating, you’re always looking to make the most of every dollar.
To you, it just makes cents… er, sense!
If you’re looking for a few creative ways to maximize your giving and stretch your support even further, here are five smart strategies for giving to Grace Christian University:
1. Donate Appreciated Stock
Held on to a stock for over a year? Donating it can give you a double tax break. You’ll get a deduction for its current market value—and skip out on paying capital gains tax.
2. Gift Real Estate
Own property that’s appreciated in value and no longer serves your needs? Donating it (or even a portion of it) before selling can help you avoid capital gains tax and qualify for a charitable deduction.
3. Give Through Your IRA
If you’re 70½ or older, you can donate directly from your IRA—up to just over $100,000 annually (adjusted for inflation)—without it counting as taxable income. Plus, these gifts go toward your required minimum distribution.
4. Share Farm Equipment & Commodities
If you’re a farmer, you might benefit from donating equipment or unsold commodities—grains, produce, livestock—before they hit the market. This can reduce your taxable income and, in some cases, let you deduct production costs.
5. Make a Life Income Gift
Want to give generously but still need steady income? A life income gift lets you donate assets now and receive regular payments for life. Later, the remaining gift helps Grace Christian University continue to graduate courageous ambassadors for Christ.
Let’s Talk
Curious about how to make your giving go further?
Reach out to Pete Tilden at (616) 298-0771 or send him an email at ptilden@gracechristian.edu.
We’d love to help you find a giving strategy that’s just right for you.
