U.S. Citizens Give Generously

Americans gave an estimated $557.16 billion to U.S. charities in 2023, according to Giving USA 2023: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2023 (from the Giving USA Foundation, the Giving Institute, and the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy). The total includes charitable contributions made by individuals, estates, foundations, and corporations.

How to Choose

If you want to give to an organization that makes the most of your charitable giving, learn how much of each dollar goes toward the charity and how much is spent elsewhere. You can find some organizations with websites that evaluate the legitimacy of charities and how they spend contributions. Also, look for a charity's IRS Form 990 and ask to see its audited financial statement to ensure it meets your desired standards. Match your giving objectives with a charity's mission and demonstrated results. Look for charities that best match your values.

Get Help

If you make significant charitable contributions, consider enlisting the aid of your advisor and an estate planning attorney. Although the federal estate tax exclusion is higher than in the past, some families may exceed it while also dealing with lower state estate and inheritance tax thresholds. Appropriately structured, charitable giving can benefit your charity and reduce your estate taxes.