Charitable Giving Tax Changes Coming in 2026: What You Need to Know

Charity Tax-Donate Starting January 1, 2026, new federal tax laws will change how individuals and corporations approach charitable giving. These updates aim to encourage broader participation while adjusting benefits for high-income donors. Here’s what you need to know: 

1. Universal Charitable Deduction for Non-Itemizers

For the first time since 2017, taxpayers who take the standard deduction can claim a charitable deduction:

  • Single filers: Up to $1,000
  • Married couples filing jointly: Up to $2,000

This applies only to cash gifts made directly to qualified public charities like hospitals, schools, and churches. Gifts to donor-advised funds (DAFs) or private foundations do not qualify. 

2. New Rules for Itemizers

If you itemize deductions: 0.5% AGI Floor: Charitable deductions apply only to giving that exceeds 0.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).

Cap on Itemized Deductions: For high-income taxpayers, the value of deductions will be capped at 35%, down from 37%.

3. Corporate Giving Changes

Corporate donors will also see new limitations:

  • Contributions must exceed 1% of taxable income to qualify for a deduction.
  • The 10% cap on corporate charitable deductions remains, with excess contributions eligible for a five-year carryforward.
Plan Ahead

These changes create opportunities for thoughtful, values-driven philanthropy. If you’re considering a gift to support Silver Cross programs or services, now is the time to review your strategy with a financial advisor. 

Key Deadlines for Year-End Giving 

December 15: Submit grant recommendations from a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF).

December 20–23: Initiate transfers of appreciated stocks and mutual funds.

December 31: Online & Credit Card Gifts: Complete by 11:59 p.m.

Checks: Payable to the Silver Cross Foundation, 1900 Silver Cross Blvd., New Lenox, IL 60451 and postmarked by Dec. 31.

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): Must clear by Dec. 31.

Questions?

Call the Silver Cross Foundation at (815) 300-7105 or email silvercrossfoundation@silvercross.org.

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Physicians on Silver Cross Hospital’s Medical Staff have expertise in their areas of practice to meet the needs of patients seeking their care. These physicians are independent practitioners on the Medical Staff and are not the agents or employees of Silver Cross Hospital. They treat patients based upon their independent medical judgment and they bill patients separately for their services.