Giving shares to charity has long been a useful way of unlocking capital and passing it on to good causes.

Since April 2000, donations made in this way have been made eligible for full personal income tax relief as well as exemption from capital gains. A gift of £1,000 listed shares could reduce a basic rate taxpayer's income bill by £220 and a higher rate payer's by £400. In addition, no capital gains tax is payable on gifts of shares to charity. Similar relief also applies to donations of land or buildings.

If you would like more information about gift of shares, please view the HM Revenue & Customs website

Who can use Share Giving?
Any U.K. tax payer who holds listed shares, unit trusts or OEICs can donate them and claim personal tax relief. Non U.K. taxpayers can also donate shares but these are not eligible for tax relief.

How does it work?
Donors can claim income tax relief equal to the market value of the shares on the day the gift is made, plus any associated costs such as broker's fees.

If you are interested in making a gift of shares to The Suffolk Foundation, please contact us as we can help to arrange the transaction or offer guidance.