While exact percentages can vary among organizations, it's common for nonprofits to collect between 30% and 40% of their total annual donations during November and December. This surge is often attributed to year-end giving campaigns, holiday generosity, and tax considerations. It is the perfect time of year where an agency’s needs and donor’s needs meet, making a huge impact. 

Tax Deductions for Donors: Many donors choose to make charitable contributions at the end of the year to take advantage of tax deductions. In the U.S., donations made by December 31st are eligible for that year’s tax returns. This incentivizes donors to give more during the final months of the year, boosting nonprofit revenue.

It’s a perfect time for an IRA Charitable Rollover: Older adults can donate directly from their IRAs, which can count as a required minimum distribution, offering tax advantages while benefiting a cause they care about.

The Holiday Spirit: People tend to feel more generous around the holidays, especially as the year draws to a close. There's often a cultural push toward giving, whether it's through gifts, charity drives, or end-of-year campaigns. Nonprofits capitalize on this spirit by running end-of-year fundraising campaigns. Remember, many organizations or corporations match their employees’ charitable contributions, and a year-end campaign is the prime time for donors to maximize their giving opportunities and give back more to the charities they care about.

Tis the season to meet goals and plan for the future: Nonprofits often have annual financial goals to meet, and year-end giving helps them close the gap between their funding needs and actual contributions. For many organizations, the last quarter of the year can provide the bulk of their funding for the entire year.

Year-end gifts help nonprofits maintain their programs, plan for the upcoming year, and cover operational expenses. This is especially important for smaller nonprofits that rely heavily on individual donations.

Answering holiday wishes: You, as a donor, can make wishes come true. Donors are motivated to give more generously when they know their contribution can meet a critical need or a time-sensitive opportunity.

For many nonprofits, year-end giving is an essential part of their fundraising strategy, helping them not only to meet financial goals for the year but also to build momentum for the year ahead. It offers nonprofits a chance to connect with donors, celebrate the impact of their work, and create lasting relationships that support their mission, programs, and services.