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Smart Giving in 2025: How to Make the Most of Your Gift to Thornwell

Giving to a cause you care about—like Thornwell—is always meaningful. But in 2025, smart donors are also thinking strategically to make their gifts go further, thanks to new tax laws like the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act. Here’s how you can give generously and wisely this year.

What you should know:

Non-itemizers –

  • Some tax benefits for charitable giving, even if you don’t itemize.
    • Up to $1,000 for individuals
    • Up to $2,000 for couples filing jointly

Itemizers –

  • New caps and minimum gift requirements
    • Beginning in 2026, the increased standard deduction is permanent at $15,750 (individuals) and $31,500 (couples)
    • It also introduces a 0.5% of AGI (adjusted gross income) floor for itemized charitable deductions and caps deductions for high earners at 35%.

Some key strategies for Thornwell donors:

Maximize charitable donations in 2025 before the floor of 0.5% of AGI kicks in and the maximum tax bracket is 35%, beginning January of 2026.

Think beyond cash and revisit your giving mix. Cash and non-cash assets (ex: appreciated securities, stock, IRA rollover) may provide better tax efficiency under the new rules.

Your gifts to Thornwell can do more. Find a tax strategy that’s right for you and help make a bigger impact on children and families today!

Here are a few examples you can ask your financial advisor/planner about today:

Bunch Your Donations

If you usually give every year, consider charitable bunching—combining several years of donations into one. “Bunch” contributions into a DAF in high-income years to maximize your deduction while continuing to make grants over time. This can help you exceed the higher standard deduction and unlock valuable tax benefits.

Make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)

If you’re 70½ or older, you can donate directly from your IRA using a QCD. This reduces your taxable income and supports Thornwell at the same time—a win-win! QCDs remain a valuable tool as it can reduce your tax income directly, regardless of whether a charitable deduction is taken.

Plan for the Future

Consider lifetime gifts, like naming Thornwell in your will or as a beneficiary on an account. These planned gifts help ensure your legacy continues to support children and families in need, even in uncertain economic times.

Talk to Your Trusted Financial Advisor

Your giving strategies should align with your personal philanthropic goals and your overall financial plan. Contact your advisor to learn how you can support Thornwell in a way that aligns with your personal values and offers potential financial advantages.

Why It Matters

Thornwell is compelled to continue serving children and families, and can continue this mission-driven work with the generosity of donors like you! Strategic giving not only helps you make the most of your resources but also helps Thornwell continue its mission with confidence and stability.

If you’re considering making a gift, we’d love to talk with you about the best way to do so. Contact Elizabeth Milhous today at giving@thornwell.org!

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