Spring Fountain scene on UAlbany campus. Spring Fountain scene on UAlbany campus.

Transform Lives at UAlbany — and Receive Exceptional Tax Benefits

A Unique Giving Opportunity Through the NYS Charitable Tax Credit Program

What’s the Opportunity?

Make a gift through the SUNY Impact Foundation, which will direct your contribution to UAlbany, and receive an 85% tax credit on your 2025 New York State taxes. 

This time-limited program offers generous tax incentives for eligible donors who act before September 30, 2025.

How the Tax Benefits Work

New York State

  • 85% of your approved donation is eligible as a tax credit.
  • 15% is eligible as a deduction.
  • You receive the benefit of both the credit and the deduction.

Federal

  • 15% of your donation may be deductible if you itemize.

To maximize your benefit, you should have a NYS tax liability equal to or greater than the credit amount.

What Is a Tax Credit?

A tax credit directly reduces the amount of tax you owe—dollar for dollar. Unlike deductions, which reduce taxable income, credits reduce your actual tax bill and may increase your refund.

Eligibility & Gift Requirements

  • You must be a New York State resident or have a NYS tax liability.
  • Gifts from donor-advised funds, family foundations, IRAs and S-corps are not eligible.
  • Minimum donation: $10,000
    Maximum donation: $100,000
  • Accepted gift types: Stock, cash (via wire, ACH, or credit card), or combination of both.
  • Checks are not accepted. 

Additional Details

  • You may direct your gift to any UAlbany priority, create a new endowed fund, or fulfill an existing pledge.
  • Gifts to UAlbany’s endowment may qualify for New York State matching funds.
  • The program has a $10 million SUNY-wide cap. If exceeded, requested donations will be prorated.
  • Stock transfers are processed by the University at Buffalo Foundation and directed to UAlbany.
  • A 2% processing fee applies to all gifts. Credit card gifts incur an additional 3% fee.

Timeline & How to Give

  1. Submit your application online by September 30, 2025, selecting University at Albany as your campus.
  2. In early October, you’ll receive your authorized donation amount and payment instructions.
  3. Make your gift by November 26, 2025 (stock transfers must be initiated by November 21).
  4. You’ll receive a tax receipt in January 2026 for your 2025 filing.
  5. Funds from your gift will be transferred to UAlbany in March 2026.

Questions?

Reach out to your UAlbany advancement team contact or:

Larry Lichtenstein
Associate Vice President for Advancement
📧 [email protected]
📞 (518) 810-1507