Cash and securities are deductible charitable contributions. If you give a gift of appreciated securities that you have held for longer than one year, you can deduct the full fair market value on your 2008 tax return and avoid capital gains tax.

If you wish to give a gift of appreciated securities or mutual fund shares, contact your investment advisor soon to be sure your gift is completed by December 31.

You can also use appreciated securities to establish a charitable gift annuity with Teachers College that will provide you with a fixed income for life, as well as a charitable deduction.

If we can be of any assistance as you plan a gift of stock, please see the stock transfer instructions on our giving web pages at www.tc.edu/supporttc or contact Mary Amoon-Hickey at 212-678-3392.

Please note that a stock transfer can take up to seven business days to complete, so remember to plan early.

Published Friday, Jan. 16, 2009