Most Americans aren’t making year-end charitable donations amid economic fears

Americans are refraining from making end-of-year charitable donations as economic challenges persist. Nonprofits expecting a surge in donations in the final days of 2025 may be disappointed due to factors such as the high cost of living, inflation, and increasing unemployment, according to a recent AP-NORC poll.

The survey revealed that about half of Americans have already made their charitable contributions for the year and do not plan on giving more. Only 18% have donated and intend to do so again before the year ends, while a mere 6% are waiting until the last minute. The remaining 30% have not donated and do not plan to.

This means that only 24% of respondents are planning to make a donation before the year concludes, a critical time for charities. December remains a significant deadline for donors, as nearly one third of annual giving is estimated to occur in the final month of the year.

Despite various causes to support, including natural disasters and social services, lower-income households are finding it challenging to donate due to weaker income gains and inflation. Financial constraints, such as student loan debts and increasing expenses, are limiting the ability of families like Oakley Graham’s from Missouri to contribute.

While the US economy showed strong growth in the third quarter, much of the spending came from upper-income households closely tied to financial markets. In contrast, the job market has been struggling, with an increase in unemployment to 4.6% in November.

Inflation and the rising cost of living have also impacted charitable donations, with overall retail sales slowing down. Cuts to the federal workforce have further affected giving, as evidenced by a decrease in donations to an annual charity drive by federal employees.

The number of Americans donating to charity has been declining for at least a decade, with shrinking donor rolls becoming a recurring trend. Money concerns, such as worries about rising prices and the cost of living, are cited as reasons for skipping charitable donations.

As a result, the non-profit sector is relying on fewer donors to contribute more generously. Mega-donors, who make substantial donations of $50,000 or more, are playing a significant role in supporting charities.

Some wealthy philanthropists have increased their giving in response to the current climate, with organizations like the Gates Foundation and individuals like Mackenzie Scott pledging significant amounts for charitable causes.

Overall, the landscape of charitable giving is evolving, with economic factors and individual financial situations influencing donation patterns. It remains to be seen how this trend will impact the non-profit sector in the long run.