Good News for Givers in 2026

Here’s a piece of good news to include in your next annual campaign planning: beginning in 2026, more of your church members will be able to receive a tax deduction for their charitable giving, even if they don’t itemize their deductions. 

As part of the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Congress approved a new “above-the-line” charitable deduction for taxpayers who take the standard deduction. Starting with gifts made in 2026, individuals may deduct up to $1,000, and married couples filing jointly may deduct up to $2,000, from their taxable income for gifts to qualified charities, including their church. 

This is a small but meaningful win for generosity. For many households that haven’t itemized since the standard deduction increased in 2017, this change provides a new incentive to give and a reminder that their faithful generosity makes a difference both spiritually and financially. 

Here’s a sample message you might include in your campaign communications or newsletter next year:

As you plan your 2026 campaign, share this good news widely. It’s another reason to celebrate the joy of giving and to remind your congregation that every gift, large or small, builds the future God is calling us toward.

This content was created by our staff with the support of AI tools.