Why Donating Securities Is a Smart, High-Impact Gift
As the holiday season and the end of the tax year approaches, it’s a time to reflect on what truly matters and how to make a lasting difference in the lives of British Columbians living with disabilities.
One of the most meaningful and tax-efficient ways to give back is through a gift of publicly listed securities — such as stocks, bonds or mutual funds — donated directly to a registered charity like Easter Seals BC/Yukon and extend the impact of your giving across BC, helping individuals with disabilities and their families.
When you donate publicly listed securities that have gained value, you can eliminate capital gains tax on the appreciated investment while also receiving a charitable tax receipt for your generous gift.
With markets near record highs many Canadians are holding significantly appreciated securities and facing larger tax bills. Now is a great moment to help you turn gains into good tax-efficient ways to give.
Why Donating Securities Is a Smart, High-Impact Gift
When you donate securities that have increased in value, two major advantages work in your favour:
- You receive a tax receipt for the full fair market value of the securities.
- You pay zero capital gains tax on the appreciated investment.
This means your gift goes further—allowing you to support accessible programs, inclusive camps, and essential community services while keeping more in your pocket.
Donating stocks is easy
The Securities Transfer Form can be filled out with your broker, who will then initiate the transfer. If you do not have a broker, you can send the completed form to your delivering institution.
Donating stocks through your will
You can also donate stocks through your will and receive tax savings for your estate. For more information, or if you are the executor of someone else’s will and would like to distribute shares from an estate, please contact us.
Act Early—Year-End Deadlines Matter
If you want your donation to apply to this year’s taxes, be sure to initiate the transfer well before December 31. In-kind transfers can take several days—or weeks for mutual funds—so planning ahead is essential.
For more information, reach out to Tristan Klassen, Acting CEO.
