Giving stock that has appreciated, and that you have held for at least one year, is often one of the smartest ways to make a gift. You not only obtain a deduction for the full-fair market value of the stock (typically calculated as the average of the high and the low on the day the stock leaves your control), you also avoid paying tax on the capital gain.

(Where a stock has depreciated in value, selling the stock and contributing the proceeds may be more advisable, particularly if you can use the loss to offset other gains.)

The key idea is to transfer the shares to Harvey Mudd College. Do not sell the shares and forward us the proceeds. The transfer process varies slightly depending on whether the stock certificates are in your possession or not.

To discuss your options, please contact one of the following persons:

Elizabeth Baughman, director of advancement services
Elizabeth_Baughman@hmc.edu or (909) 607-3469

Maya Chalich, senior director for college advancement
Maya_Chalich@hmc.edu or (909) 607-0899

Heath Elliott, senior director for college advancement
Heath_Elliott@hmc.edu or (909) 607-0902