5 Questions to Ask Before Making a Major Charitable Gift

When most people think about charitable giving, the first question that comes to mind is often:

 

"How much should I give?"

 

But for larger charitable gifts, that isn't always the most important question.

 

Taking time to think through a few key considerations can help ensure your gift aligns with both your financial goals and the impact you hope to make.

 

1. What do I hope this gift will accomplish?

 

Before deciding how to give, take a step back and consider why you're giving.

Are you hoping to:

 

• Support a cause you're passionate about?
• Create a lasting legacy?
• Respond to an immediate need?
• Involve your family in philanthropy?

 

Having a clear purpose often makes the rest of the planning process much easier.

 

2. Is this the right time to give?

 

Timing can play an important role in charitable giving.

 

Some donors choose to make gifts after a major financial event, while others build giving into their annual financial planning. Understanding how timing fits into your broader goals can help create a more intentional strategy.

 

3. What assets should I use?

 

Many donors automatically think about writing a check.

 

However, depending on your circumstances, other assets—such as appreciated securities, real estate, or business interests—may also be worth discussing with your financial and tax advisors.

 

Sometimes the asset used to fund a gift can be just as important as the gift itself.

 

4. How involved do I want to be?

 

Some donors prefer making a single donation and moving on.

 

Others want the flexibility to support multiple organizations over time, involve family members in future decisions, or develop a long-term charitable giving strategy.

 

Thinking about how involved you'd like to remain can help determine which giving approach best fits your goals.

 

5. Have I discussed my plans with my advisors?

 

Charitable giving doesn't happen in isolation.

 

For larger gifts, conversations with financial, tax, and legal advisors can help ensure your philanthropic goals fit within your broader financial plan.

 

Every donor's situation is different, and professional guidance can help identify opportunities that align with your unique circumstances.

 

Final Thoughts

 

A major charitable gift is more than a financial transaction. It's an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a way that reflects your values and long-term goals. By asking the right questions before you give, you can make more informed decisions and create a charitable strategy that's right for you.