When you’re leaving a legacy for the people and causes you love, such as Murray State University Foundation, you want to make as big an impact as possible. That’s harder to do if you let the government take a chunk.

That’s why, if you are thinking about using stock to make an impact at Murray State University, donating the stock is a better option than selling it and donating the proceeds. When you give Murray State University Foundation appreciated securities that you’ve owned for more than one year, you may receive two tax benefits:

  1. You are exempt from paying capital gains taxes on any increase in value—taxes you would pay if you sold the stock.
  2. You are entitled to a federal income tax charitable deduction based on the current fair market value of the securities, regardless of their lower original cost, if you itemize.

How to Donate Stock

Here’s how to give appreciated securities to Murray State University Foundation.

If you have the physical securities: Hand-deliver them to Murray State University Foundation or mail us the stocks and stock power separately.

If you don’t have possession of the physical securities: Instruct your broker to electronically transfer your intended shares and notify us once the transfer is complete.

Another Option: Real Estate

As with stock, a gift of land or developed property—if it’s worth more today than what it originally cost—is another way to leave a legacy at Murray State University while receiving tax benefits. Certain types of real estate may be in your best interest to give. Here’s why:

  • Real property, such as land or a vacation home that is no longer used, has a cost of ownership.
  • An older commercial building may be fully depreciated, as well as costly and time-consuming to manage.
  • Developed investment or commercial property, on which straight-line depreciation was taken, may provide significant capital gains tax savings.

We’re Here to Help

Not sure whether donating stock is the best way for you to support our mission? Feel free to contact Dr. David Durr, CFA, CFP® at 270-809-6912 or ddurr@murraystate.edu. Together with your advisor, we can help you fulfill your charitable goals and protect your assets from unnecessary taxes.