Gifts of Appreciated Securities

An outright contribution of long-term appreciated securities relieves you from paying capital gains tax on those securities and entitles you to a charitable deduction equal to the fair market value of the securities. Because you avoid the capital gains tax, it is usually more advantageous to contribute appreciated securities directly rather than to sell them and give the proceeds of your sale.

When you give long-term appreciated securities your federal income tax deduction is limited to 30 percent of your adjusted gross income for that year.

You may make a gift of securities to Spelman College in one of two ways:

For Securities Held By You:

Endorse the certificates to "Spelman College" and send directly to Michael S. Rhodes, Planned Giving Director, Spelman College, Box 1551, 350 Spelman Lane, SW, Atlanta, GA 30314, accompanied by a transmittal letter giving your name and address and stating the purpose of the gift. If you choose to use a stock power, send unendorsed stock certificates and the stock power under separate cover with a copy of the transmittal letter to accompany each mailing.

For Securities Held By a Bank or Brokerage:

Instruct your broker or agent to call Michael S. Rhodes, Planned Giving Director, 404-270-5126. We will advise your broker or agent about delivery of the stock. You should also send a letter to Spelman College stating the purpose of your gift.

If you own securities that have dropped in value, it is usually best to sell them and give the cash proceeds. You can then claim both the capital loss and the deductible charitable gift of the cash proceeds of the sale.