Americans Remain Generous but Fewer Are Giving
Americans continue to stand out as some of the most generous people on the planet.
In 2025, the United States ranks among the top nations for both wealth and giving, ninth in per capita GDP and fifth on the World Giving Index.
Yet, behind this reputation for generosity, a quiet shift is taking place. Fewer Americans are actually donating.
A Changing Culture of Giving
According to Giving USA 2024, charitable contributions in the U.S. rebounded modestly in 2023 after a steep 10.5% drop between 2021 and 2022.
Still, giving remains near historic lows at just 1.8% of disposable personal income. Back in 2000, about two-thirds of U.S. households gave to charity. By 2018, that number had fallen below half.
Even so, generosity remains part of America’s spirit.
Adjusted for inflation, total giving in 2023 was more than seven times higher than it was in 1954. During the COVID-19 pandemic, millions opened their hearts and wallets, and that compassion endures today.
A recent Gallup poll found that 83% of Americans donated to charity in the past year, with 91% of higher-income households giving annually.
Where the Donations Go
The U.S. is home to roughly 1.5 million charitable organizations, many recognized as tax-exempt under IRS 501(c)(3).
That means gifts to these groups are not only impactful, they can also reduce your taxable income and even provide estate tax benefits.
In 2024, the top 100 charities, including Feeding America, St. Jude, and Habitat for Humanity, collected more than $64 billion in private donations.
Make Your Giving Count Now and in the Future
Whether you are contributing today or planning a legacy gift for tomorrow, smart planning can help your generosity go further.
Options like charitable trusts, donor-advised funds, or direct bequests allow you to support causes you care about while aligning with your financial goals.
Because the rules can be complex, expert legal guidance ensures your gift creates lasting impact.
Plan a Legacy That Reflects Your Heart
At Ruddy Law, we help individuals and families include charitable giving in their estate plans with care and precision.
Together, we can build a legacy that honors your values and helps the organizations you believe in thrive for years to come.
Make every gift count, today, tomorrow, and beyond.
