Can I donate stock I’ve owned for less than a year?

Yes, but long-term holdings (held over one year) often offer more favorable tax treatment.

Do I need to sell shares before donating?

No, transferring shares (in kind) is typically more advantageous tax-wise, because it avoids triggering capital gains.

Can I direct the gift to a particular campus or program?

Yes, you can instruct BHI on how to use the gift (benevolent care, enrichment, etc.).

Will I receive a receipt?

Yes, BHI will issue an acknowledgment noting the shares, transfer date, and value for your tax records.

What about stock that has lost value?

You might be able to sell at a loss and donate cash instead, which could let you claim a capital loss in addition to the charitable deduction. Consult your financial advisor.

Donate Stock to BHI

How donating stocks to charity can make a difference

Donating stock is a powerful way to support the BHI Foundation. By giving appreciated shares directly, rather than selling them, you may avoid capital gains taxes while making a significant impact on the the lives of older adults.

How to Get Started Download Stock Transfer Form

Important Legal Information

Legal name
BHI Foundation, Inc
Address
8330 Allison Pointe Trail, Indianapolis, IN 46250
Tax ID
(EIN) 35-1680796
The BHI Foundation is a 509(a)(3) supporting organization; contributions are tax-deductible under U.S. and Indiana law.

How It Works

You transfer ownership of stock (e.g. public equities) directly to BHI.
If the stock has appreciated, you may avoid capital gains tax on the increase in value.
You generally receive a charitable income tax deduction equal to the fair market value of the shares at the time of the gift.

How to donate stock to charity

a step-by-step guide for the BHI Foundation

Step 1: Choose what type of stock and how many shares you want to donate

You will need to know the name of the stock and its ticker symbol if it is a publicly-traded stock. For nonpublicly traded stock, please contact us at 317-275-3230

Step 2: Contact your financial institution to request the transfer

Provide your advisor or broker with the following wiring instructions:

DTC-Eligible Securities:
(Includes Master Limited Partnerships)
Deliver to DTC Clearing 0226.
ACCT#: 637-039948

Step 3: Contact us to inform us of your gift
Please contact us in advance at 317-275-3230 or info@bhifoundation.org to let us know that you are gifting stock to the BHI Foundation in order to receive your tax receipt.

Step 4: Look for a tax receipt and acknowledgment letter from the BHI Foundation

You will receive an acknowledgment following your donation to confirm your gift was processed.

To claim the tax benefits of donating stock to the BHI Foundation, report the stock donation when you file your tax return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Donating stock directly to a charitable organization like the BHI Foundation, can increase the amount of money received by the charity while reducing tax burden for the donor. When you donate appreciated securities (investments that have increased in value from the time they were purchased), some individuals and households may be able to take advantage of IRS tax provisions to claim a charitable tax deduction for the full, fair market value of the securities. This means you may avoid paying capital gains tax on the transfer.

Your financial advisor can explain the possible tax benefits depending on whether the stock has appreciated or lost value since the time you acquired it.

Another benefit of donating your stocks directly to a charity is that the charity can receive a larger donation than if you donated the cash from the sale of those stocks. When you donate stock to a charity, you typically do not have to pay taxes on the gains of the stock.

Stretching the impact of your donation allows charities to do all that much more for their cause.