CASH-FREE WAYS TO HELP ANIMALS

Whether you’re thinking ahead, exploring tax-friendly options, or simply looking for new ways to do good, there are plenty of impactful ways to support animals. Because generosity doesn’t always mean giving cash—it means giving with care.

Plan your legacy of compassion

You can create real change for animals far into the future—by including The Humane League in your long-term plans.

• Add a gift to your will or trust. It can be as simple as designating a specific dollar amount, a percentage, or what remains after other priorities are met. We’ve made it extra easy by partnering with FreeWill.

• Name THL as a beneficiary. Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and bank accounts often let you update beneficiaries in just a few clicks.

• Act now to maximize tax savings. In 2025, you can still complete charitable gift annuities (CGAs) or charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) before new tax deduction limits take effect.

Every legacy gift, no matter the size, helps build the world we all believe in: one where animals are treated as living, feeling beings—not commodities. Join our Legacy Society to make your values last.

Give smarter with stocks or mutual funds

If you own appreciated assets like stocks or mutual funds, donating them directly can be one of the most tax-efficient ways to help animals.

• Skip the capital gains tax. When you donate appreciated securities directly to charity, you avoid paying taxes on the growth.

• Get a full deduction. You can claim the asset’s fair market value on your taxes, which may be higher than what you’d give in cash.

This approach lets you do more for animals while reducing your taxable income—it’s a win-win for your values and your finances. Talk to a financial advisor to explore your options, or contact our team to discuss your gift. You can also donate stock directly through our website or call us at +1 240-200-4480, ext 3.

Use your IRA for good (if you’re 70½ or older)

Have a traditional IRA? You can use it to support animals and satisfy your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) in a smart, tax-friendly way.

• Make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). This direct gift from your IRA to THL doesn’t count as taxable income.

• No need to itemize. Even if you take the standard deduction, you can still use a QCD to make a meaningful impact.

If you don’t need all of your RMD, it’s a powerful way to help animals while making the most of the money you’ve already set aside.

Tap into a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)

Think of a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) as a charitable savings account—with major tax perks.

• Give now, decide later. You can write off your contribution in the year you give, then recommend grants to The Humane League anytime.

• Grow your giving. Funds in your DAF grow tax-free, giving your gift the chance to go further over time.

DAFs are one of the fastest-growing ways to give. In 2022, donors contributed nearly 86 billion to DAFs—almost double what went to private foundations. But too often, that money sits unused. One report estimated that 229 billion is currently sitting in DAFs—enough to double the budgets of hundreds of thousands of nonprofits.

If you already have a DAF, recommend a grant to The Humane League. And if you’re thinking about starting one, talk to your financial advisor to see if it’s a good fit for your giving strategy.

Other non-cash ways to support animals

Not every gift fits in a box—or a checkbook. Here are a few more ways to put your compassion into action:

• Cryptocurrency: Like stock donations, crypto gifts may allow you to avoid capital gains taxes and still claim a full deduction—while helping animals now, not later.
• Property or Vehicles: Depending on the asset, you may be able to donate real estate, jewelry, or even your old car. These gifts can be surprisingly impactful—and we’re happy to help walk you through the process.
• Workplace Giving: Check if your employer offers donation matching or payroll giving. It’s a simple way to double your impact and rally your workplace around the cause.

Your voice still matters

Even without financial assets to give, you can still power this movement in meaningful ways:

• Volunteer with THL. Your time and talents can help build a better future for animals.

• Join the Fast Action Network. Receive quick digital actions you can take anytime—no donation required.

The future is in your hands

You don’t have to be wealthy to make a difference. Sometimes it’s as simple as finding overlooked ways—like loose change in the couch—and putting them to good use for animals.

Whether you’re planning your estate or looking for new ways to give, you can support a world where animals are respected, protected, and free from suffering. Because generosity isn’t about how much you give—it’s about how deeply you care.