Do you have appreciated investments you are planning to sell? Consider donating shares of stock, mutual funds, or bonds to the Culver City Education Foundation, and avoid paying capital gains tax. When you donate your investment directly to CCEF, you won't owe capital gains tax on the appreciated value. This is a great way to maximize your charitable giving before the end of the year.

As you evaluate your portfolio, you may be considering selling some of your appreciated investments. Donating stock directly to CCEF is one of the most tax-smart ways to maximize your gift.

Here are three reasons you may want to give stocks instead of cash:

• You get the exact same charitable deduction as you do by donating cash.
• By giving appreciated stocks, you ALSO eliminate the long term capital gains tax you would owe.
• Donating stocks is easy and hassle-free; it also helps you keep your portfolio balanced and in-line with your long-term goals.

If you find that you have securities that have declined in value and are interested in donating them, you may find it more advantageous to sell the securities first and contribute the proceeds as opposed to donating the securities outright. This strategy should allow you to claim a deduction for both the loss from the sale of the securities, as well as the charitable gift.

Gifts of appreciated securities could provide even greater tax or estate planning benefits to you through a charitable planned gift arrangement.

Donating stock can be a very tax-advantageous way to support Culver City students. The transfer process is simple. Email CCEF at [email protected] to make arrangements or to learn more.