2026 Tax Updates: New Ways to Make Your UC Irvine Giving Go Further
Tax law changes taking effect in 2026 may create new opportunities for charitable giving, whether you itemize deductions or take the standard deduction. Below is a quick overview of what's new and how it may relate to your UC Irvine giving.
A new deduction is available even if you don't itemize
For the first time in years, taxpayers who take the standard deduction may still be eligible for a tax benefit for charitable cash gifts.
In 2026, eligible taxpayers may deduct up to:
- $1,000 in cash gifts (single filers)
- $2,000 in cash gifts (married couples filing jointly)
Important note: Gifts to donor-advised funds are excluded from this provision.
This deduction is in addition to the standard deduction
Yes, this charitable deduction is separate from the standard deduction.
For 2026, the standard deduction is:
- $16,100 for single filers
- $32,200 for married couples filing jointly
If you are age 65 or older, your standard deduction may be higher depending on your filing status.
Additional tax relief may apply for taxpayers age 65+
Through the 2028 tax year, qualifying taxpayers may also be eligible for an additional deduction of:
- Up to $6,000 (individual)
- Up to $12,000 (married couples, if both qualify)
This benefit phases out at higher income levels, so it's best to review eligibility with your tax advisor.
Giving strategies to consider in 2026
If you take the standard deduction:
Even if you don't itemize, certain gift types may still provide meaningful financial advantages.
For example:
- Gifts of appreciated stock or real estate may help you avoid capital gains tax while supporting UC Irvine.
- If you are age 70½ or older, you may be able to make a gift directly from your IRA to the UC Irvine Foundation through a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). This can reduce taxable income and may satisfy all or part of your required minimum distribution (RMD), if applicable.
Key considerations for donors who itemize
- Larger cash gifts may still be deductible
If you itemize, the IRS continues to allow cash charitable contributions to be deducted up to 60% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). Some donors choose to structure gifts using a mix of assets, such as cash plus appreciated securities, to support UC Irvine in a more tax-savvy way. - A new minimum giving level is now required for itemizers
Starting in 2026, itemizers may be able to deduct charitable gifts only to the extent they exceed 0.5% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). - A new limit for top earners
Beginning in 2026, individuals in the highest tax bracket may see the tax benefit of their charitable deduction limited to 35%, down from the current top rate of 37%.
Your Legacy at UC Irvine
No matter how you choose to give, UC Irvine's Office of Planned Giving is here to help you explore options that align with your philanthropic goals and financial plans.
If you would like to discuss charitable strategies in light of the 2026 tax changes, please contact:
Ervin Rodriguez, CSPG
Executive Director, Planned Giving
University of California, Irvine
Phone: (949) 824-8134
Email: [email protected]
