Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

U.S. charitable giving reached $617 billion in 2025, a 3% increase driven by growth in bequests and foundation donations. Charitable bequests rose 16.6% to $62 billion, partly due to strong stock market performance, while foundation giving hit an inflation-adjusted record of $117 billion. Paul Allen’s estate contributed $3.1 billion in 2025 through a bequest.

U.S. charities received $617 billion in donations in 2025, a 3% inflation-adjusted increase from the previous year, driven by strong market performance and increased giving across all donor categories. Bequests rose 17%, signaling the start of the Great Wealth Transfer as baby boomers pass wealth to heirs and charities.

U.S. charities received $617 billion in donations in 2025, a 3% inflation-adjusted increase over 2024. Bequests rose by 17%, and strong stock market performance and economic growth contributed to increased giving across all donor categories, including corporations, individuals, and foundations.

U.S. charities received $617 billion in donations in 2025, a 3% inflation-adjusted increase from the previous year, driven by strong market performance and economic growth. Bequests rose by 17%, signaling the potential start of the Great Wealth Transfer as baby boomers pass wealth to heirs and charities. All donor categories, including corporations, individuals, and foundations, increased giving, with notable gains in education and public-society benefit organizations.

U.S. charities received $617 billion in donations in 2025, a 3% inflation-adjusted increase from the previous year, driven by strong stock market performance and economic growth. Bequests rose 17%, signaling potential acceleration in the Great Wealth Transfer, while all donor categories—corporations, individuals, foundations, and bequests—increased giving. Education and public-society benefit nonprofits saw the largest gains, but religious group donations declined slightly.

The Council on Foundations is launching the 'Generosity Builds' campaign to address a 'perception gap' where Americans underestimate their reliance on charitable organizations. The sector faces increased scrutiny from the federal government and populist movements, with recent political efforts, including proposals under President Donald Trump, threatening foundation resources through new taxes and reduced grants.