A new federal tax law — H.R. 1, now Public Law 119-21 — will change how charitable deductions work beginning in 2026. For Transylvania University donors, this creates a valuable opportunity to make the most of giving before Dec. 31, 2025, and continue shaping the Transy experience for years to come.
Why acting now matters
If you itemize your taxes, gifts made before the end of 2025 will be deductible under the current, more favorable tax rules.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, a new giving “floor” will be enacted, meaning the first 0.5% of your income that is contributed to nonprofits will no longer be tax deductible. Also, for high-income donors in the 37% tax bracket, the new laws will limit itemized charitable deductions to 35% of your income.
Many donors are expected to bundle their 2025 and 2026 giving into one larger gift this calendar year. By doing so, they can take full advantage of the current tax environment while making a meaningful difference for Transy students right now.
Others may choose to contribute larger gifts to a donor-advised fund, or DAF, before Dec. 31. This strategy offers the preferable 2025 tax benefits while allowing continued support for Transylvania in future years.
Smart giving strategies before 2026
If you’re considering a major gift, now is the time to talk with your financial adviser about how to make the most of this one-time window of opportunity.
You might consider:
- Bundling multiple years of giving into a single 2025 gift to maximize your deduction.
- Contributing to a donor-advised fund before Dec. 31 to secure current tax benefits and give over time.
- Exploring planned giving options to sustain your impact beyond this year.
“This is a moment of tremendous opportunity for our alumni and friends who want their generosity to go further,” said Kara Covert ’90, vice president for advancement. “By acting before the new tax law takes effect, donors can both maximize their tax benefits and make an enduring difference in the lives of Transylvania students.”
A lasting impact on Transylvania
Whether you give this month, this year or through a donor-advised fund, your generosity supports scholarships, classroom innovation and opportunities that define the Transylvania experience.
Your gift helps ensure that Transy continues to deliver exceptional academics, meaningful student experiences and life-changing opportunities for generations of students to come
Give before Dec. 31
This is your chance to make your generosity go further — for you and for Transy.
Give before Dec. 31, 2025 — your generosity will go further for you and for Transy. Learn more and make your gift today.