Non-Cash Assets
The Power of Donating Non-Cash Assets
Donating non-cash assets such as real estate, business interests, or restricted stock can bring substantial tax benefits and provide a transformative impact on nonprofits like the Brigham. Navigating the transfer of these assets may seem complex, but our gift planning team is here to simplify the process and guide you every step of the way.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about donating non-cash assets.
Learn more
Maximize Tax Benefits
When you sell an appreciated asset like real estate or business interests, you may owe significant capital gains tax. But by donating part or all the asset to the Brigham instead, you often reduce or eliminate these taxes, maximize your gift’s value, and make a powerful philanthropic impact.
Increase the Impact of Your Gift
High-value assets like real estate or business interests have the potential to transform healthcare at the Brigham. Your generosity not only fuels groundbreaking research and patient care today but paves the way for a healthier future for generations to come.
To learn more about giving to the Brigham using non-cash assets, please see our FAQs or contact Kathleen Duffy, assistant vice president of gift planning, at giftplanning@bwh.harvard.edu or 617 424 4326.
Ways to Give Beyond Cash
You can support the Brigham in powerful ways—often with assets you already own. From real estate and business shares to artwork and antiques intended for sale, non-cash gifts can be liquidated to fund care and research, offering potential tax benefits while changing lives.
Real Estate
Turn your property into a powerful gift. Donating real estate—homes, rentals, commercial buildings, or land—creates a lasting impact and offers valuable tax benefits.
Business Interests
Donate business interests—LLC, LP, or private shares—for tax benefits while supporting the Brigham. Giving before a sale can offer tax deductions and reduce capital gains and estate taxes.
Restricted Stock
Donate restricted stock—company shares with sale or transfer limits—to support the Brigham and gain tax benefits. Giving before a sale may reduce capital gains and provide a charitable deduction.
Gifting real estate is a wonderful way to benefit the Brigham and our mission to accelerate PSC research, while also receiving tax benefits.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a non-cash asset donation?
A non-cash asset donation is when you give something valuable other than money to a charity. Instead of writing a check, you donate items like stocks, real estate, business interests, vehicles, cryptocurrency, artwork, collectibles, and other valuable property.
Why should I donate assets instead of selling them and giving cash?
Donating assets directly can help avoid capital gains taxes and increase the value of your gift. You may also receive a charitable tax deduction based on the asset’s fair market value.
What information do I need to make a gift with a non-cash asset?
To make a gift using a non-cash asset, we will ask a few key questions to determine its viability, including the type of asset, its approximate value, the likely exit or liquidity plan, and whether there is any debt or other encumbrances. After gathering this initial information, we can guide you on the best next steps for evaluation and help facilitate the process to ensure your gift has the greatest impact for you and the Brigham.
Do I need an appraisal for my donation?
Most likely. Appraisals are generally required for non-cash asset gifts (excluding publicly traded securities) when the claimed charitable deduction exceeds $5,000, as mandated by the IRS to determine the asset’s fair market value.
The appraisal must be conducted by a qualified independent appraiser and completed no earlier than 60 days before the donation date.
When should I make a gift of a non-cash asset?
Individuals should consider gifting non-cash assets if:
- They are invested in highly appreciated assets and wish to take advantage of charitable incentives to maximize their tax savings and rebalance their portfolios.
- Those with a large taxable estate may wish to consider gifting a portion of their holdings to minimize tax liability for loved ones who are beneficiaries.
Business owners should consider gifting non-cash assets if:
- They are interested in diversifying their portfolio and donating a portion of their privately held business interests to maximize tax savings.
- An upcoming liquidation event is approaching, and an owner(s) is interested in donating a portion of their ownership to make an impactful gift with minimal tax liability.
Make a gift now
Not ready to make a non-cash gift? Donate once or monthly using our secure online form.
Kathleen S. Duffy, [Assistant Vice President of Gift Planning]
Contact Kathleen to learn more about how you can leave a legacy.