Philanthropy is one of the most meaningful ways to shape your legacy and strengthen the communities that matter most to you. It’s not only about giving; it’s about living your values, caring for people, and intentionally leaving the world better than you found it. Purposeful generosity reflects the best of who we are. It builds community, empowers others, and becomes a powerful extension of your life story.
As we plan for 2026, now is an ideal time to consider how charitable giving fits within both your annual financial plan and your long-term estate strategy. Thoughtful philanthropy doesn’t just create impact today; it can offer meaningful tax advantages and help define the legacy you want to leave for the people and causes you love.
Below are several strategies to help you give with intention, each designed to enhance your client experience, support open and transparent decision-making, and empower you to build a legacy rooted in your values.
Maximize Your Charitable Tax Credits
Charitable giving in Canada offers significant tax advantages that can help you stretch your impact further. The federal charitable donation credit provides:
- 15% on the first $200 of donations
- 29% on donations above $200
- 33% on donations for income in the highest federal tax bracket
Provincial credits can add even more value. By incorporating philanthropy into your broader financial planning, you support the causes that matter while managing your tax burden more effectively.
Donate Appreciated Securities In-Kind
Gifting appreciated investments such as stocks, mutual funds, or bonds allows you to increase your contribution while completely eliminating capital gains tax on the donated securities. This strategy not only benefits the charity but also enhances the efficiency of your overall financial plan. It’s a smart, values-aligned way to care for people and communities while optimizing your resources.
Consider a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)
A Donor-Advised Fund can be an excellent tool for donors who want structure, flexibility, and long-term impact. DAFs allow you to:
- Make a lump-sum charitable contribution
- Receive an immediate tax receipt
- Recommend grants to charities over time
Because DAFs are professionally administered, they simplify investment management, recordkeeping, and ongoing grant distribution offering a streamlined, client-focused experience aligned with our mission to deliver customized solutions that empower you to live your best life.
Optimize the Timing of Your Donations
Strategic timing helps ensure your giving is both meaningful and efficient. Consider:
Consolidating donations during high-income years
Carrying forward donation receipts for up to five years
Aligning major gifts with life milestones, including business transitions, retirement, or estate planning events
These approaches help you build community and create impact at the moments that matter most while ensuring your generosity is supported by a strong, well-structured financial plan.
Align Your Giving with Your Legacy
A meaningful legacy is an intentional one. As you continue refining your financial and estate plans for 2025 and beyond, it’s a powerful time to revisit how your philanthropic priorities reflect your personal values, your hopes for the future, and the community impact you wish to make.
Giving with intention ensures your generosity becomes more than a transaction; it becomes a story of who you are, how you care for people, and how you choose to strengthen the world around you.
Our team is here to guide you with openness, clarity, and compassion. Whether you’re exploring new charitable strategies or refining an existing plan, we’ll work with you to create a giving approach that supports your financial goals and brings your legacy to life.
Connect with us to learn how purposeful philanthropy can elevate your long-term plan and reflect what matters most to you.
Clifford Wiegers,
CFP, TEP, CH.F.C., CLU, B.COMM
Founding Partner, Senior Wealth Advisor, Certified Financial Planner
