New 2026 Tax Breaks That Reward Your Giving

If you make cash donations to nonprofits such as Vail Health Foundation, there’s a new way you could save on your taxes.

It’s called the universal charitable deduction.

Starting this year, you can give up to $1,000 (single filers) or $2,000 (married couples) in cash and still receive a charitable deduction—even if you don’t itemize. Even small donations can benefit you as you make an impact. (Note: Gifts to donor-advised funds are excluded from this benefit.)

You can claim this deduction in addition to the standard deduction, which for 2026 is $16,100 (single) and $32,200 (married filing jointly). If you are 65 or older, you may claim an additional deduction of $2,050 more (single filer) or $1,650 more (per qualifying individual if married filing jointly).

Also, for tax years through 2028, eligible seniors receive yet another deduction: $6,000 (single filer) or $12,000 (per qualifying individual if married filing jointly)—though this phases out at higher income levels.

Add it all up, and you get an easy new way to help those we serve right away while reducing your taxes. Talk to your tax professional about how this deduction aligns with your charitable goals.

Beyond Cash Giving: More Options for You

You may still benefit by giving appreciated stock or real estate, which eliminates capital gains tax on the growth, even if you don’t itemize. If you are 70½ or older, you can make a gift directly from your IRA to Vail Health Foundation. You pay no tax on the distribution, and if you are required to take minimum distributions, it can satisfy all or part of that obligation.

Information contained herein was accurate at the time of printing. The information in this publication is not intended as legal or tax advice. For such advice, please consult an attorney or tax advisor. Figures cited in any examples are for illustrative purposes only. References to tax rates include federal taxes only and are subject to change. State law may further impact your individual results.