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As you consider your long-term philanthropic goals, changes in federal tax law beginning in 2026 may influence how you structure your charitable giving. If you’re thinking of including Kent State in your estate or financial plans, understanding these updates can help you maximize both your impact and potential tax benefits.

While many of the 2026 changes affect annual charitable giving, they also reinforce the importance of thoughtful, strategic planning, particularly for donors interested in legacy gifts.

One notable update is the reintroduction of a charitable deduction for non-itemizers, allowing up to $1,000 ($2,000 for married couples) in annual cash gifts to receive a tax benefit. This provision may complement your broader giving strategy by supporting continued annual contributions alongside long-term plans.

If you itemize, a new threshold requires that charitable contributions exceed 0.5 percent of adjusted gross income (AGI) before a deduction applies. This change may reduce the tax efficiency of smaller annual gifts, making it more valuable to plan larger or more strategic contributions in certain years.

Planning with Purpose

The evolving tax landscape makes it especially important to take a comprehensive approach to your giving. You may wish to:

• Coordinate your annual and planned gifts to optimize tax efficiency over time 

• Consider “bunching” lifetime gifts in certain years while maintaining a long-term estate commitment 

• Review your estate plans regularly to ensure they reflect both your personal priorities and current tax laws 

Working with your financial and legal advisors can help ensure your plans are aligned with your intentions and take full advantage of available benefits.

Why Planned Giving Matters More Than Ever

Many of the most effective planned giving vehicles remain unchanged by the 2026 tax law updates. These options may offer significant advantages:

• Bequests in your will or trust continue to provide estate tax benefits while allowing you to retain full control of your assets during your lifetime 

• Beneficiary designation gifts on retirement accounts or life insurance policies allow you to make a legacy commitment without adjusting your will

• Gifts of appreciated assets, such as stock, may help you avoid capital gains taxes while maximizing your charitable impact 

Because some tax benefits for lifetime giving are becoming more limited, especially for higher-income donors, these planned giving strategies can play an even greater role in achieving your philanthropic and financial goals.

Creating a Lasting Legacy

Planned gifts are among the most meaningful ways to support future generations of students. You can help provide enduring resources for scholarships, faculty support and innovative programs.

Although tax laws may change, your legacy - and the difference it makes - endures. With careful planning, you can continue to support the university in a way that reflects your values, benefits your loved ones and creates lasting impact for years to come.