The end of the year is the time when people are looking to show gratitude by donating to their favorite charities or special causes that are important to them. But like any financial decision, you should take a moment to see if there are any tax benefits or strategies to consider that can maximize your giving efforts. The first strategy to consider is a Donor Advised Fund. These have two main tax advantages. First, you become eligible for an income tax deduction of the full fair market value of the asset, up to 30% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for gifted securities, and 60% of your AGI for cash. It also eliminates capital gains taxes on long-term appreciated assets if they’ve been held for longer than a year. The second strategy that can help benefit a charity – as well as your own finances – is a Qualified Charitable Distribution or QCD. QCDs can be a great option for those 70 ½ or older and allows you to contribute money directly from your IRA to your preferred charity. You’re allowed to give up to $100,000/year. The advantage is that this reduces your AGI, which affects things like Medicare, Social Security, and various other tax credits and deductions. It may even help you reduce your income taxes. It can also help you offset any additional income you have if you’re over age 72. Another charitable deduction that’s available is the Ohio Scholarship tax credit. It’s a $750/person non-refundable credit you ca