Charitable Giving Changes in 2026
The work we do at YWCA Greater Pittsburgh - eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all - would not be possible without the generous support of our donors and supporters. While charitable giving is rooted in supporting the causes you care about, certain donations can also offer tax benefits. The information below is provided solely for general educational purposes. It is not intended as tax, financial, or legal advice. Individual situations vary, and donors should consult a qualified tax professional to understand how any changes may apply to them.
In 2026, new federal tax rules will affect charitable giving, including potential changes to how much of your charitable giving is deductible.
New regulations mean that more people will be able to deduct their charitable giving due to a tax deduction for non-itemizers. Overall, only about 10% of taxpayers itemize their deductions and take advantage of the charitable income tax deduction. 90% of taxpayers use the standard deduction, according to the Tax Policy Center.
For Donors Who Take The Standard Deduction
Starting this year, you’ll be able to deduct a portion of your charitable giving:
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You may deduct up to $1,000 in cash gifts to eligible public charities (or $2,000 if married filing jointly). This deduction applies only to cash gifts to public charities, like YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, but not to donor-advised funds or private foundations.
Turning to what is excluded from these new rules, donor-advised funds and foundations will not be available for deduction. Clothing or household items will also not qualify.
For a gift of $250 or more, you’ll need the same type of receipt you’d need for an itemized charitable gift — a written acknowledgement that describes the donation affirming that you did not receive goods or services for your donation.
For Donors Who Itemize
If you itemize deductions on your tax return, new limits will take effect in 2026:
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Only charitable contributions that exceed 0.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) will be deductible.
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For those in the top tax bracket, the value of itemized deductions will be capped at 35¢ per $1 donated, or 35% — instead of the past marginal rate of 37%.
Now is a great time to consider your charitable giving plans. Donors can take a fresh look at their charitable giving strategies to be mutually impactful — for yourself and the causes you care about.
This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor for advice insight into to your situation. YWCA Greater Pittsburgh is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are deductible to the extent permitted by law.