You won't have to pay any capital gains tax on the shares you donate and you can claim income tax relief too.
If you are a higher rate (40%) taxpayer you will be able to claim income tax relief equal to 40% of the value of the gift.
If you are a highest rate (45%) taxpayer you will be able to claim income tax relief equal to 45% of the value of the gift.
To qualify for tax relief, the shares or securities must be:
listed or dealt on a recognised UK or foreign stock exchange
units in authorised unit trusts
shares in a UK open-ended investment company
holdings in certain foreign collective investment schemes
For donations over £500, our dedicated stockbroker will help make selling your shares as easy and secure as possible. To start your giving journey, please contact us at philanthropy@cancer.org.uk. Alternatively, you can donate shares to ShareGift and mention Cancer Research UK. ShareGift may be particularly useful for complicated share transactions, or if you wish to support a variety of beneficiary charities from a large value share donation.
For donations under £500, you can donate shares to ShareGift and mention Cancer Research UK. ShareGift is a charity specialising in accepting donations of shares and related cash entitlements. Contact them on 020 7930 3737 or through the ShareGift website. ShareGift will accept nil value shares, as long as they are transferrable.
If you'd like any further information on giving through shares, contact us at philanthropy@cancer.org.uk. If you're unsure of your tax situation and would like more information, you can contact the HM Revenue & Customs helpline on 0845 900 0444 or visit the HMRC website.