How do I calculate the “fair market value” of the security for income tax deduction purposes?
You calculate the mean (average) between the highest and lowest quoted selling prices per share on the valuation date. What is the valuation date? The valuation date is generally the date that the security is actually transferred to WSPA. Can I combine giving appreciated securities with other types of gifts for even more advantage? You certainly can. You can use appreciated securities to fund charitable gift annuities and charitable remainder trusts. This way you can increase your income as well. Should I give securities I own that have a loss? No. It is better to sell the securities that have losses and use the loss to offset other gains you may have. You can then donate cash or other securities that have a gain. Can you provide an example of why it’s better to give stock than to sell the stock and then give cash? As you can see from the table below, both you and WSPA are better off with a gift of appreciated stock. You make a larger gift to help the animals, avoid significant capital
