Charitable Stock Donation Calculator
Donating appreciated stock instead of cash lets you deduct the full market value AND avoid capital gains tax. See how much that double benefit is worth for you.
How to use this calculator
- Enter stock fair market value.
- Enter your cost basis.
- Enter your marginal tax rate.
- Enter long-term capital gains rate.
- Your results appear instantly below and update as you change the numbers.
How this calculator works
When you donate stock held over a year, you deduct the full fair market value and never pay tax on the appreciation. Worked example: $10,000 of stock bought for $4,000 — donating it avoids 15% tax on the $6,000 gain ($900) and earns a $10,000 deduction worth $2,400 at 24%, a $3,300 total benefit versus selling first and donating the cash.
Frequently asked questions
Stock donation or cash — which is better?
For appreciated stock held over a year, donating the stock wins: the charity gets the full value and you avoid the capital gains tax. The exception is losing stock — sell it first to harvest the loss deduction, then donate the cash proceeds.
What is the deduction limit?
Appreciated securities to a public charity are limited to 30% of your AGI (versus 60% for cash), with the excess carrying forward up to five years. For cash donations the 60% limit applies, and both are subject to overall itemized limits.
Does the charity need my cost basis?
Yes — you must provide the basis and holding period so the charity can issue the correct receipt. Stock held one year or less is not eligible for the fair-market-value treatment; you only deduct your basis for short-term holdings.
Does this work with a donor-advised fund?
Yes — a DAF is one of the most common ways to give appreciated stock: you get the deduction in the contribution year and can recommend grants later. The 30%-of-AGI limit still applies, but you can bunch several years of giving into one high-income year.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.