For example, reviewing a client’s finances might reveal appreciated securities that could be prime for gifting, an IRA that could be used for a qualified charitable distribution or a donor advised fund with money available for end-of-year grants. Similarly, reviewing a client’s estate plan and beneficiary designations can help ensure documents and assets are aligned to fulfill post-death philanthropic goals.

With the changes to charitable deduction rules that took effect in 2026, reviewing these options is especially timely. The right approach depends on each client’s circumstances. Just as important as tax savings is understanding a client’s values and goals so that their broader financial and estate plans can be tailored to meet their personal needs.

You don’t need to have all the answers before raising the subject. The Associated’s planned giving team is available to work with advisors and their clients to explore options and consider how charitable giving might fit into their plans.

As you prepare for your remaining client meetings this year, make charitable giving one of the topics you raise, rather than a topic you address only when a client brings it up. Ask whether there are organizations or causes they want to support, now or in the future, and whether their current plans reflect those intentions. Then take the next step: explore the options, review relevant documents and bring in the right partners when needed.

A single conversation can spark an immediate gift, inspire a lasting change to an estate plan, or simply plant the seed for future discussions. Whatever the immediate outcome, you will have helped your client connect their wealth with what matters most to them while demonstrating that you are deeply invested in protecting their broader life goals.