Good News for Givers: A New Tax Deduction for Non-Itemizers in 2026

Ken Weingarten |
Categories
Taxes
Tax Season
Deductions
Charitable Giving

If you typically take the standard deduction on your federal income tax return, there is meaningful good news for you this year. Starting with the 2026 tax year, a new federal law allows taxpayers who do not itemize to deduct cash charitable contributions — even though they are claiming the standard deduction. This is a significant change that could reduce your tax bill simply by doing what many of you already do: supporting the causes and organizations you care about.


What the New Law Says


Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law in July 2025, non-itemizers may now claim an above-the-line deduction for cash donations made to qualified charitable organizations. The limits are:

  • Up to $1,000 for single filers

  • Up to $2,000 for married couples filing jointly


    This deduction is permanent — it does not expire — and it applies beginning January 1, 2026.


    What Donations Count?


    Only cash contributions qualify. This includes checks, credit card charges, online donations, and payroll deductions. The donation must be made directly to a
    qualified 501(c)(3) public charity.
    .
    The following do not qualify for this deduction:

  • Donations to donor-advised funds (DAFs) or private foundations
  • Non-cash gifts (clothing, furniture, household items, etc.)
  • Contributions to 501(c)(4) social welfare organizations or political action committees

  • Gifts to individuals


    Save Your Receipts — This Is Important


To claim this deduction, you must be able to substantiate your contributions. The IRS requires:

  • A bank record or written communication from the charity for any cash gift

  • A written acknowledgment from the charity for any single donation of $250 or more, received before you file your return

    This means saving receipts, confirmation emails, and bank statements
    for every qualifying donation you make throughout 2026. Do not wait until tax season — gather documentation as you give.


    A Note on Carryovers


    Unlike the itemized charitable deduction, excess contributions cannot be carried forward to a future tax year under this provision. If your cash donations exceed the $1,000 / $2,000 annualcap, the unused portion is simply lost for deduction purposes. Plan accordingly.


    Upload Your Receipts to Our Client Portal


    To help us prepare your 2026 tax return accurately and efficiently, please save all receipts and written acknowledgments for your cash charitable contributions throughout the year and upload them to your secure client portal under:
    Taxes → 2026


    Uploading receipts as you receive them — rather than collecting everything at year-end —makes the process smoother for everyone. If you have any questions about how to access the portal or where to upload documents, please don't hesitate to contact our office.


    We appreciate your trust in Weingarten Associates LLC and look forward to helping you make the most of the new opportunities this tax year brings.


    This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Please consult with your tax advisor regarding your specific situation.