Gifts of appreciated securities, stocks and bonds are a great way to support Boston Latin while reducing your taxes. Long-term appreciated assets — held for more than one year — are deductible in the year you make your gift. You earn an income-tax deduction on the current value while avoiding the capital-gains tax that would be due on sale of the stocks. Thus, making a gift of stocks purchased at a cost of $10,000 that are now worth $75,000 would yield a deduction for $75,000 to the donor and a gift of $75,000 to the school. The $65,000 difference between the cost basis/original purchase price ($10,000) of the stocks and their current value ($75,000) would not be subject to capital-gains tax if the stock is given to the school before being sold.

The process for making a stock gift is easy: Gifts may be transferred directly by your broker to our brokerage account or certificates may be given to the Association.

For Securities Held by a Bank or Brokerage Firm:
Instruct your broker or agent to contact Vice President for Finance Jim Gard at the Boston Latin School Association. We will advise your broker or agent about how to deliver the stock. Please also send a letter to the Association designating the purpose of your gift.  

For Securities You Hold:
Endorse the certificates to “Boston Latin School Association” and send them directly to Vice President for Finance Jim Gard accompanied by a transmittal letter giving your name and address, and stating the purpose of the gift. If you choose to use a stock power, send unendorsed stock certificates and the stock power under separate cover with a copy of the transmittal letter to accompany each mailing.

“I strongly believe in the importance of education to improve the lives of less-advantaged children. I, along with many other BLS alums, feel obligated to make sure that these same opportunities are available for other children.”
~ Chuck Longfield ’74

 

For more information about making a gift of appreciated assets, please contact the BLSA at 617.450.0004.

Whatever the size of your gift and its potential impact, you are encouraged to consult with your professional advisor (e.g. attorney and/or financial planner) prior to making your gift.