As we move into 2026, many donors across the Fond du Lac area are thinking intentionally about the role philanthropy plays in their lives and how to give in ways that create lasting impact. With evolving tax considerations and changing community needs right here at home, now is an important time to align your generosity with thoughtful planning.

At the Fond du Lac Area Foundation, we are honored to partner with individuals, families, and businesses as they organize their charitable giving to support meaningful, long‑term impact. As you plan for the year ahead, here are 10 smart charitable giving tips to keep in mind in 2026.

1. Understand the current charitable giving landscape: Tax laws and deduction rules evolve over time, making it important to stay informed. We encourage you to connect with your tax advisors to understand how today’s environment may influence your charitable plans.

2. Consider “bunching” charitable gifts: Combining multiple years of charitable contributions into a single year, often done through a donor advised fund, may help you exceed the standard deduction and increase tax efficiency.

3. Use a donor advised fund to simplify your giving: A donor advised fund allows you to make a contribution and receive an immediate charitable deduction while recommending grants to your favorite nonprofits over time, at your pace.

4. Give appreciated assets when possible: Donating long‑term appreciated securities instead of cash may help eliminate capital gains tax while increasing your charitable impact. These gifts require coordination and advance planning, making early conversations especially valuable.

5. Explore IRA charitable gifts (QCDs): If you are age 70½ or older, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows you to direct funds from your IRA to qualified public charities in a highly tax‑efficient way.

6. Review and refine your charitable goals: Giving plans evolve just like the community’s needs. Our team is happy to help you review your objectives and explore opportunities that align with your values.

7. Support the community as a whole: Unrestricted and special‑purpose funds at the Fond du Lac Area Foundation allow us to respond where needs are greatest, supporting both immediate challenges and long‑term priorities.

8. Review beneficiary designations: Naming a fund at the community foundation as a beneficiary of a retirement account can create a meaningful future gift while potentially reducing the tax burden on loved ones.

10. Plan early for complex gifts: Gifts such as real estate or closely held stock require additional steps and lead time. Thoughtful planning now creates flexibility and fewer surprises later.