Taxpayers who filed using TurboTax, TaxWise and other software packages reported delays and errors.

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Of the three other basis methods, the most advantageous taxwise (and probably the only other one you'll need to know about) is the "specified share" method.

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So you can make your gifts in the years when your income is high and you can get the most benefit from a charitable deduction. (Donating highly appreciated stock is the best way to do it, taxwise.) Then, you can dribble out the money over time to your favorite operating charities.

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