Donate

Writing a check is a simple, no-fee option that ensures the full amount of your gift reaches the Brewster Library. There are no processing fees, and it leaves a clear paper trail (the canceled check) that facilitates documentation for tax purposes.

Using a credit card is the most convenient way to donate online, but it is not the most efficient because of transaction fees.

The benefits are that it is convenient, offers fraud protection, and may earn you reward points if you are enrolled in such a program. In fact, you can also donate your accumulated reward points to the Library.

The single biggest drawback are the banks’ processing fees. Less of your money—anywhere from 2.0% to 3.5%—will go directly to the Library.

You can donate publicly traded securities (like stocks) or real estate that have increased in value.This can provide a tax deduction for the full market value and avoid capital gains taxes. 

To donate appreciated assets like stock to a charity, contact your broker or financial institution to initiate a transfer of the asset. You will need the Library’s account information to complete the transfer.

Before the end of the year, submit the transfer form to your financial institution to secure your tax deduction. Finally, obtain a receipt from the LIbrary and keep detailed records for your tax return, including the transfer form and brokerage statements.

A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows individuals aged 70½ and older to donate directly from a traditional IRA to a qualifying organization like the Brewster Ladies’ Library. It can be any amount up to an annual limit of $108,000 (for 2025), without being taxed on the distribution.

QCDs can satisfy Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and provide tax benefits, even for those who don't itemize deductions, because the IRA assets go directly to the Library.

To complete a QCD, contact your IRA custodian to arrange a transfer..

A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is a charitable investment account held by a public charity (the sponsoring organization) wherein donors contribute assets (cash, securities, or other assets), receive an immediate tax deduction, have the option of recommending grants to other qualified charities over time. DAFs offer donors tax benefits and flexibility to manage philanthropic giving, with the sponsoring organization handling administration and due diligence.

You will receive an immediate tax deduction for your contribution in the year you make the donation. The remaining assets in your DAF are invested, providing the potential for future growth. It serves as a vehicle for you to manage your charitable giving going forward; the sponsoring organization handles the paperwork, due diligence, and administrative tasks associated with your donations and grants. Eeach year, you will recieve a single tax receipt from the sponsoring organization, not from every charity you support.