Schwab Charitable, a donor-advised fund sponsor, reported this week that it facilitated more than $1.6 billion in grants to 71,000 charities in 2017.
Schwab Charitable account holders recommended some 368,000 grants, 35% more than in 2016.
The report said the new federal tax legislation and robust market performance helped make 2017 a historic year for charitable giving.
"A combination of factors created a one-of-a-kind giving environment last year, and we're thrilled that our efficient, tax-smart solution helped donors maximize the impact of their generosity," Schwab Charitable's president, Kim Laughton,said in a statement.
"The changes to the tax code this year have made it even more important for donors and their financial advisors to plan giving over several years in order to fulfill their personal philanthropic mission and make the most of tax deductions at the same time."
More than 70% of contributions to Schwab Charitable accounts were highly appreciated, noncash assets such as publicly traded securities, restricted stock and real estate. Donors were thereby able to maximize their charitable impact by avoiding capital gains tax, according to the report.
