Donating securities has twice the benefits as making a regular cash donation. Not only will you get a charitable tax receipt, but you will also eliminate capital gains tax on the donated securities.
How does it work? When you make a gift of securities, you receive a charitable tax receipt for the full market value (closing price) of your securities on the day of the deemed disposition, providing you with a non-refundable tax credit that will reduce your income taxes. You can use this tax credit in the year of your gift or carry it forward for up to five additional years.
In addition to getting a charitable tax receipt, you pay no capital gains tax on the appreciated value (increased price) of your securities. Therefore, a wise strategy might be to donate securities that have a very low cost base and that have appreciated significantly. We always advise to speak with your investment advisor or accountant to decide how best to donate your securities.
So donating securities to the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra helps you:
– avoid tax on capital gains
– maximize your return on your investment
– protect your tax credits for use against other taxable income
– make a larger contribution to your charity