Give & Get: News About the 2026 Donation Tax Break
We’re sharing some exciting news that makes 2026 the perfect time to lend your support to Whatcom Humane Society! New tax provisions that took effect starting January 1, 2026, have created a valuable benefit for the majority of Americans who take the standard deduction. In previous years, if you didn’t itemize your taxes, your charitable giving didn’t secure a direct tax write-off. That changes this year.
Here's the Good News
For donors taking the standard deduction, there is now an additional tax break available permanently. You can now deduct up to $1,000 (for single filers) or $2,000 (for married couples filing jointly) in cash gifts. This deduction is available on top of the standard deduction. Put simply, your support for WHS can officially count toward lowering your tax bill! Quick Example: If you’re married, filing jointly, and take the standard deduction, a $2,000 gift to WHS could reduce your taxable income by $2,000—on top of the standard deduction you’re already receiving. That’s real savings, available right now.
What Can You Do Now?
- Utilize the cash gift deduction: To qualify for this benefit, gifts must be made in cash (checks or credit card donations count). Note: the benefit does not apply to gifts to donor-advised funds or private non-operating foundations.
- Maximize the cap: Consider making a gift of $1,000 or $2,000 early in the year to fully lock in this deduction right away.
- Be a “tax-smart” donor: You don’t need a complex financial portfolio to earn a tax benefit from your generosity. Simple, direct giving now rewards you at tax time.
This Matters to Us—and You
Your support fuels our mission and helps us serve our community with kindness, compassion, and respect for all animals. By supporting WHS this year, you are not only making a savvy financial move, you’re also ensuring we’ll have the resources needed to be there whenever an animal needs us.
If you have questions about this information or about making your gift to WHS, please reach out to Paige at development@whatcomhumane.org or 360-733-2080 x 3014.
The above guidance is excerpted from AllianceBernstein Asset Management’s blog, “Give Early, Save More: Beat the New Charitable Floor Before It Starts,” available at https://bernstein.com. We encourage you to speak with your tax professional to verify how these changes apply to your specific tax situation.