Donating shares

Why donate shares to charity?

Over 12 million people in the UK own shares, with a combined value of more than £200 billion. If only a tiny fraction of these were given to charity, imagine what a difference it could make.

What are the benefits for you?

• Donating shares to Cancer Research UK is one of the most tax-effective ways you can give money.
• 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 taxpayer and give us shares worth £1,000 you will pay £400 less in income tax this tax year.

Also, you will not have to pay capital gains tax on any increase in the value of shares since you bought them.

To qualify for income tax relief, the shares must be listed or dealt on a stock exchange.

How to Donate

If you would like to donate shares to Cancer Research UK, contact us using the details below and we will send you a letter acknowledging your intended gift. The sale of the shares can then be done over the phone with our stockbroker who will send you a contract note as a receipt. This applies to shares held both in paper form and in nominee accounts. To ensure that you receive the maximum tax relief you will need to keep our letter and the contract note from the stockbroker, making it clear that we have benefited from your gift.

What to do with small numbers of shares

Sadly, it is not economically viable for us to accept shares worth less than £200. If you have a few shares and still wish to donate, please donate them to ShareGift. ShareGift is a charity specialising in accepting smaller number of shares and can be contacted on 020 7828 1151 or visit their website at www.sharegift.org. Please remember to mention Cancer Research UK when making your donation.

How to contact us

If you would like to make a donation of shares, or if you require further information or assistance, please contact Ian Wilson in our Trusts and Major Gifts Department on 020 7438 5306 or email ian.wilson@cancer.org.uk.

Please note...

Cancer Research UK is unable to offer advice on personal tax issues. So if you are unsure of your tax situation, we recommend that you speak to a financial advisor or contact the Inland Revenue helpline on 0151 472 6043/6046 or 0131 777 4040 in Scotland. Alternatively, visit their website at www.hmrc.gov.uk/charities/chapter_5.htm. Cancer Research UK cannot accept shares in companies associated with the tobacco industry.