Creative ways to make your gift to the Boundary Waters go farther
When people think about supporting our work to permanently protect the Boundary Waters, they usually picture a gift from their checking account. But there are other ways to give, and some of them come with real tax benefits for you.
Supporters often ask us thoughtful questions about giving, and we love hearing them. Here are some of the questions that come up most:
Q: I have a donor-advised fund. Can I use it to support Save the Boundary Waters?
Yes! A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a charitable investment account created for one purpose: supporting the causes that matter most to you. When you contribute to a DAF, you can usually take an immediate tax deduction. Your funds are invested for tax-free growth and can then be distributed to any IRS-qualified charity, like Save the Boundary Waters.
Many of our Wilderness Defenders are already giving this way!
Q: Can I give from my IRA?
Yes, and it may save you money on taxes. If you're nearing the age when the IRS requires minimum distributions, you may end up with more taxable income than you plan to spend. A qualified charitable distribution (QCD), a gift sent directly from your IRA to a charity like Save the Boundary Waters, may provide tax savings.
You can also name us as a beneficiary of your IRA or 401(k), which can create tax efficiencies for your estate.
Q: Do I owe capital gains tax if I donate stock, bonds, or mutual funds?
Not when you give them directly to a cause, like Save the Boundary Waters. Donating securities is a powerful way to maximize your impact while enjoying significant tax benefits.
When you contribute stocks, bonds, or other appreciated assets, you can eliminate capital gains taxes on the transfer, claim a tax deduction for the full market value of your securities, and receive the same income tax savings you would with a cash donation.
Q: How can I protect the Boundary Waters beyond my own lifetime?
Through a legacy gift! A planned gift to Save the Boundary Waters, through your will, retirement plans, or insurance policies, is a thoughtful way to safeguard the Boundary Waters for future generations. It may also provide a welcome tax benefit to you and your estate.
Q: What is Give to the Max Day, and how can I take part?
Give to the Max Day, November 19th, is Minnesota’s largest giving holiday, and a powerful moment to stand up for the Wilderness we love. From November 1 to 19, your gift helps us raise funds and awareness to help permanently protect the Boundary Waters. You can give online, through your IRA, or from your donor-advised fund.
Do you still have a question that we didn’t answer? Check out our Ways to Give website or reach out to our development director, Kelsey, at kelsey@savetheboundarywaters.org.