What is Donated Stock? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

Donated stock refers to shares of fully paid capital stock that individuals or entities give to a charity or transfer to a corporation for resale. When stock is donated, it is recorded in the organization's accounts at its par value, which is the nominal value of the stock as stated in the corporate charter.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A local business owner donates shares of their company valued at $10,000 to a nonprofit organization. The organization can sell the stock to fund its programs.

Example 2: An individual donates stock worth $5,000 to a charity and claims a tax deduction for that amount on their income tax return. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Key Differences
California Specific rules on capital gains tax for stock donations.
New York Additional documentation may be required for high-value donations.
Texas No state income tax, affecting the tax implications of donations.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Gift A voluntary transfer of property without compensation. Donated stock specifically refers to shares, while a gift can be any property.
Charitable Contribution A donation made to a qualified charity. Donated stock is a type of charitable contribution, but not all contributions involve stock.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering donating stock, follow these steps:

  • Consult with a tax professional to understand the implications of your donation.
  • Choose a qualified charity to ensure your donation is eligible for tax deductions.
  • Document the donation properly, including the stock's fair market value at the time of the gift.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist with donation agreements and tax documentation.

Quick facts

  • Typical deduction: Fair market value of the stock at the time of donation.
  • Eligible charities: Must be IRS-recognized nonprofit organizations.
  • Documentation: Required for tax purposes.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

No, the charity must be recognized as a qualified nonprofit by the IRS.