Why Financial Advisors Should Talk About Charitable Giving Before Year-End

As the year winds down, financial advisors are focused on closing out client goals, optimizing portfolios, and preparing for tax season. But there’s another high-impact conversation worth having...

As the year winds down, financial advisors are focused on closing out client goals, optimizing portfolios, and preparing for tax season. But there’s another high-impact conversation worth having before December 31st: charitable giving.

Year-end is traditionally the most generous season of the year. It's also one of the most strategic times for giving. For Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), it’s an ideal opportunity to help clients align their wealth with their values, strengthen relationships, and provide a meaningful value-add.

 

Why Year-End Giving Matters

 

The final quarter of the year is when donors make the majority of their charitable contributions. Clients are often reviewing their tax situations, evaluating income, and considering legacy moves. Integrating a conversation about charitable giving fits naturally into this window.

 

With the right tools, you can help clients:

  • Maximize tax benefits
  • Support causes they care about
  • Make giving a part of their long-term financial strategy

 

Enter: The Donor-Advised Fund

 

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) have grown in popularity because they offer simplicity, flexibility, and powerful tax advantages. With a DAF, clients can make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then grant to nonprofits over time. GiveClear Foundation’s DAF platform — powered by TIFIN’s technology — makes this process even easier.

 

Real-Time Visibility, Low Friction

 

Unlike traditional DAFs, GiveClear’s platform offers real-time visibility into grant activity, helping clients stay connected to their giving. Advisors can guide clients through the giving process without adding administrative burden. There’s no need for guesswork or waiting.

 

With GiveClear donors can:

  • See their giving activity and impact at a glance
  • Track grants in real-time
  • Engage family in giving decisions

 

A Conversation That Builds Trust

 

Helping clients express generosity isn’t just about tax savings — it’s about aligning with their values. When you make space for these conversations, you deepen trust and demonstrate that you understand the full picture of your clients’ financial lives. As Giving Season ramps up, this is the moment to introduce a giving strategy that’s simple, strategic, and deeply personal.

 

Want to Learn More?

Explore how GiveClear can support your advisory practice at https://www.giveclear.org/financial-planning