Americans Tighten Purse Strings for Charitable Giving as Year-End Approaches

Mon Dec 22 2025 17:51:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A new AP-NORC poll reveals that many Americans have not planned year-end charitable contributions, despite rising needs from nonprofits. December is identified as a crucial time for donations, yet many face competing financial pressures.

According to the latest AP-NORC survey, nearly half of U.S. adults report they have already made their charitable donations for 2025, while only a small fraction intends to give before the year ends. Rising costs and competing priorities have hindered year-end giving, despite an overall increase in urgency for various causes. Data indicates a trend toward smaller incremental donations through checkout systems at retailers.

NEW YORK (AP) — Most Americans aren’t making end-of-year charitable giving plans, according to the results of a new AP-NORC poll, despite the many fundraising appeals made by nonprofits that rely on donation surges in the calendar’s final month to reach budget targets.

The survey, conducted in early December, found that about half of U.S. adults reported they’ve already made their charitable contributions for 2025. Just 18% indicated they’ve donated and will give again before the year is out. Only 6% reported they haven’t given yet but will do so by December’s end, while the remaining 30% have neither donated nor plan to.

This year’s giving trends are particularly influenced by various financial pressures, including competing priorities from social services cuts and rising inflation. The survey highlighted that many lower-income households are stretching their budgets and may have less to contribute.

December remains a pivotal month for charities, with nearly a third of annual donations typically made in this last month of the year. Despite the challenges, some Americans remain committed to philanthropy, either through larger donations or smaller contributions at checkout. This implies a shift toward micro-donations as financial constraints persist.

As the year draws to a close, experts encourage individuals to reflect on their charitable intentions and the impact of their contributions, especially in a year marked by heightened economic needs.