Tax uncertainty could hurt charitable giving

Uncertainty over future tax rates and the end of a popular tax break for seniors could cause givers to postpone or reduce charitable contributions this year, putting pressure on charities already struggling with a decline in donations.

The fourth quarter is traditionally the time of year when many large charities receive the majority of their annual contributions. Donors who make their contributions by Dec. 31 can claim the deduction when they file their tax return for the year. But political gridlock has turned that strategy upside down, charitable experts say.