Charitable Contribution Deduction
Definition
An itemized deduction for donations to qualified charitable organizations. Cash donations are generally deductible up to 60% of AGI. Donations of appreciated property (stocks, real estate) are deductible at fair market value up to 30% of AGI, with the added benefit of avoiding capital gains tax on the appreciation. You must have written acknowledgment for any single donation of $250 or more.
Example
Donating $5,000 worth of stock you bought for $2,000 lets you deduct the full $5,000 and avoid paying capital gains tax on the $3,000 appreciation—saving you potentially $1,550 in total tax.