At Teaching for Change, we know that people give not because of tax benefits but because of the impact it makes in building social justice starting in the classroom. However, we wanted to tell you about some information that may be helpful as you think about your charitable giving for the year ahead.
New federal tax laws passed this summer that will affect charitable giving starting in 2026. While the details can feel a bit complex, we want to make it simple and clear for you — and help you understand why planning ahead in 2025 could make a real difference.
What’s changing?
If you don’t itemize your taxes:
Here’s some good news! Starting in 2026, all taxpayers — even those who take the standard deduction — will be able to deduct charitable contributions. Individuals can deduct up to $1,000 and couples can deduct up to $2,000 annually.
This is a positive change for many donors. However, if you already give more than these amounts each year, making your 2025 gift before the new limits take effect could provide a greater tax advantage.
If you itemize your taxes:
Two additional changes will begin in 2026:
- A minimum giving threshold: Charitable deductions will only apply after your total donations reach at least 0.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).
- A slightly lower deduction cap: The maximum deduction rate will decrease from 37% to 35%, which means larger gifts will offer a slightly smaller tax benefit.
What does this mean for you?
Because of these changes, some Teaching for Change donors are choosing to be strategic about their 2025 giving — whether that means making a larger gift this year or “frontloading” two or three years of charitable contributions before the end of 2025 to maximize the benefits under current tax rules.
Of course, every donor’s situation is unique, and we always encourage you to consult with your tax advisor to determine what makes the most sense for you.
Your support matters
Whatever you decide, please know how deeply grateful we are for your commitment to Teaching for Change. Your generosity makes a lasting impact on young people and their futures, and we’re honored to have you as part of our community.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your giving plans, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!
MAKE A DONATION
Our thanks to the Washington School for Girls for providing much of the language in this message.
What the Current Tax Law Means for Giving to Teaching for Change
At Teaching for Change, we know that people give not because of tax benefits but because of the impact it makes in building social justice starting in the classroom. However, we wanted to tell you about some information that may be helpful as you think about your charitable giving for the year ahead.
New federal tax laws passed this summer that will affect charitable giving starting in 2026. While the details can feel a bit complex, we want to make it simple and clear for you — and help you understand why planning ahead in 2025 could make a real difference.
What’s changing?
If you don’t itemize your taxes:
Here’s some good news! Starting in 2026, all taxpayers — even those who take the standard deduction — will be able to deduct charitable contributions. Individuals can deduct up to $1,000 and couples can deduct up to $2,000 annually.
This is a positive change for many donors. However, if you already give more than these amounts each year, making your 2025 gift before the new limits take effect could provide a greater tax advantage.
If you itemize your taxes:
Two additional changes will begin in 2026:
What does this mean for you?
Because of these changes, some Teaching for Change donors are choosing to be strategic about their 2025 giving — whether that means making a larger gift this year or “frontloading” two or three years of charitable contributions before the end of 2025 to maximize the benefits under current tax rules.
Of course, every donor’s situation is unique, and we always encourage you to consult with your tax advisor to determine what makes the most sense for you.
Your support matters
Whatever you decide, please know how deeply grateful we are for your commitment to Teaching for Change. Your generosity makes a lasting impact on young people and their futures, and we’re honored to have you as part of our community.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your giving plans, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!
MAKE A DONATION
Our thanks to the Washington School for Girls for providing much of the language in this message.
Posted: November 11, 2025