Universal Charitable Deduction (Federal 鈥 Beginning in 2026)
Starting with the 2026 tax year, a new federal provision called the Universal Charitable Deduction (UCD) will allow taxpayers who do not itemize to still receive a tax benefit for their charitable giving. This deduction is part of the 鈥淥ne Big Beautiful Bill,鈥 which updates federal tax rules beginning in 2026.
What this means for donors:
Taxpayers taking the standard deduction may deduct up to $1,000 in charitable cash gifts ($2,000 for married couples filing jointly) from their federal taxable income.
Because this is an 鈥渁bove鈥憈he鈥憀ine鈥 deduction, donors do not need to itemize to benefit.
This new federal deduction works in addition to the Idaho Educational Tax Credit, which Idaho taxpayers may claim even if they do not itemize.
As a result, many donors may receive both a state tax credit and a federal deduction for eligible gifts beginning in 2026.
Note: This information is for general awareness only. Donors should consult their tax advisor regarding their personal tax situation.