New Tax benefits for charitable contributions to The Rotary Foundation in 2026

Starting in the 2026 tax year, you can claim an "above-the-line" charitable deduction even if you take the standard deduction. Eligible non-itemizers can deduct up to $1,000 for single filers and up to $2,000 for married couples filing jointly. This means that you can claim this deduction in addition to taking the standard deduction, directly reducing your adjusted gross income and thereby decreasing the amount of taxes you owe.

Your donations must be made in cash or via credit card. Gifts of non-cash property (such as clothing, household items, or real estate) do not qualify. Gifts made straight to The Rotary Foundation qualify for a full charitable deduction. This includes contributions to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or approved global grants. For any donation of $250 or more, you must obtain a contemporaneous written acknowledgment from the charity stating that no goods or services were provided in return. The Rotary Foundation will automatically send an acknowledgment for any donation over $10 made by check or online.

Donating to The Rotary Foundation is quick and safe. Go to the official My Rotary Donate page. Choose a one-time gift or a recurring gift. Pick a cause (we suggest the Annual Fund), enter your payment details, and submit. You can create an account to track your giving if you do not have one.

The information provided herein is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax advice. Please consult your tax advisor for guidance specific to your financial situation.

Written by PDG Guy Babb with Celeste Hebert, Regional Major Gifts Officer | The Rotary Foundation