Gift of Securities
What is a Gift of Securities?
A Gift of Securities is a donation of publicly traded stocks, mutual funds or other eligible securities made directly to a charity without selling them first.
By donating securities instead of selling them, you eliminate capital gains tax and receive a charitable tax receipt for the full market value of your gift.
This approach allows you to give more strategically, making it one of the most effective ways to support your community.
What are the advantages of giving a Gift of Securities?
- Eliminate capital gains tax: When you donate eligible securities to United Way, you eliminate capital gains tax on the appreciated value of your shares.
- Get a tax receipt for full market value: Your charitable tax receipt reflects the current market value of the securities.
- Make a larger gift at a lower cost: Donating securities is one of the most tax-effective ways to give, allowing you to give more to United Way than if you sold the asset first and donated cash.
- Unlock a first-time match: If this is your first gift of securities to United Way, your donation may be matched.
This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal or financial advice. It is not a substitute for professional advice; United Way encourages you to seek professional legal, estate planning, and/or financial advice before deciding upon your course of action.
Maximize your impact with the Gift of Securities Match
Thanks to the exceptional generosity of Rick & Deb Gallant, Gordon Lackenbauer & Jesse Trapp and Phil & Francine Welch, your initial gift of securities to United Way could be matched up to $2,500 – meaning your contribution will have a greater impact to Calgarians.
The Gift of Securities Match is available up to a maximum of $210,000. To be eligible for this matching opportunity, donations must support United Way of Calgary and Area’s programs and initiatives. Funds designated to other charities are not eligible to be matched.
How to donate a Gift of Securities
Getting started is simple. Please note donations must have a value of $1,000 or more.
- Complete the Gifts of Securities Donation Form.
- Email completed form to securities@calgaryunitedway.org.
- United Way sends brokerage account information, and you can instruct your broker to initiate the trade to transfer the securities.*
Once the shares are received, United Way will confirm the value and issue your charitable tax receipt, generally based on the closing price on the day the donation is accepted.
If you have any questions or require assistance, contact our Gift of Securities Coordinator** by phone at (403) 410-2578 or email at securities@calgaryunitedway.org.
*Some restrictions apply. To download the Gift of Securities policy, visit: calgaryunitedway.org/acceptance-of-gifts-policy/
**Any gift planning should be done in consultation with your financial or tax advisor.