Giving to Charity in 2026? The Tax Rules Have Changed
Whether you support a neighborhood food pantry, your place of worship, or a favorite nonprofit, charitable giving can make a meaningful difference. Starting in 2026, two federal tax changes may also affect your return.
Taking the standard deduction? You may now deduct up to $1,000 in qualifying cash donations, or $2,000 for married couples filing jointly, even without itemizing. Checks, credit card payments, and qualifying electronic payments count as monetary contributions. Donated clothing and household goods do not qualify for this particular deduction.
Itemizing your deductions? A new threshold applies: charitable contributions are generally deductible only to the extent they exceed 0.5% of your adjusted gross income. For example, if your adjusted gross income is $100,000, the first $500 of contributions generally produces no charitable deduction. If you donate $2,000, the remaining $1,500 may be deductible, subject to other applicable limits.
Two practical takeaways:
Check the charity and save your proof. Verify eligibility through the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search. Keep receipts or bank records, and obtain a written acknowledgment for each contribution of $250 or more. Gifts directly to individuals generally are not deductible.
Review your giving before December 31. Consider whether you expect to itemize and how the new rules affect your planned donations.
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