Gifts of Personal Property

Alumni and friends who contribute property to WPI enjoy a double advantage: a federal income tax deduction for the full fair market value of the contributed property, plus avoidance of capital gain tax if the property has appreciated in value.

The precise impact, of course, depends on the nature of the property contributed and the current tax bracket of the donor. In planning such a gift to WPI, a donor’s first step should be to consult with their advisors.

Gifts to WPI of stocks, bonds or mutual fund shares you have held long term (at least 12 months and one day) qualify for a charitable deduction based on the fair market value of the securities on the date of transfer. In most cases you will avoid any potential capital gain tax liability. Such gifts may be deducted for federal income tax purposes up to 30 percent of adjusted gross income, with a five-year carry-over provision available, if needed. When gifting short-term capital gain property (held less than 12 months), please note that the value of the federal income tax charitable deduction is limited to the cost basis, not the current market value.

If you wish to make a gift of stock, please contact Jodi Richards at jarichards@wpi.edu, 508-831-6760; or Kaitlin Badjo at kmbadjo@wpi.edu, 508-831-4679.

Donors considering a gift of appreciated property should contact their tax advisors regarding any personal tax implications.