Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) Bunching
Stack several years of charitable giving into one big year for the deduction; grant the funds out to charities over time.
Why bunch
The 2018 tax reform doubled the standard deduction (~$32,200 MFJ in 2026, made permanent under OBBBA). Many families who gave $10k/yr to charity now get NO tax benefit because they take the standard deduction. Bunching 3–5 years of giving into ONE year clears the standard deduction hurdle and captures the full itemized benefit.
How a DAF helps
A Donor-Advised Fund (Fidelity, Schwab, Vanguard, community foundations) lets you contribute (and DEDUCT) a large amount today, then grant it out to your favorite charities over the next several years on your own schedule.
Power move: appreciated stock
Contribute long-term appreciated stock instead of cash. You deduct the full fair-market value AND avoid the capital gains tax you'd pay if you sold it. Often a 30–40% boost in giving power vs. cash.
Educational only — not tax, legal, or investment advice. Talk through your specific situation with a qualified advisor.