Understanding the New 2026 Tax Changes for Charitable Giving

New federal tax rules taking effect in 2026 will change how charitable donations are treated on your taxes, and we want to be sure our supporters are informed as you plan your year-end giving.

For many donors who take the standard deduction, there is good news. Beginning in 2026, you’ll be able to deduct a portion of your cash gifts to eligible nonprofits even if you do not itemize your taxes. This means that even modest donations may now offer a tax benefit where they often didn’t before!

For donors who do itemize, the rules will become more complex. Starting in 2026, only the portion of your charitable giving that exceeds 0.5% of your adjusted gross income will qualify for a deduction. In addition, high-income taxpayers will see a limit on the value of their charitable deduction. These changes may reduce the tax benefit for some larger gifts.

Because these rules begin on January 1, 2026, donations made in 2025 still fall under the current system. For some donors—especially those considering larger contributions or multi-year commitments—this may make 2025 an especially advantageous time to give.

As always, every contribution directly supports the preservation, protection, and enjoyment of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Your generosity is what keeps these treasured landscapes thriving for generations to come.

We encourage all donors to speak with their financial advisor or tax professional to understand how these upcoming changes may affect your personal giving strategy.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Seashore