Compare the Options
 
Are you considering creating a private foundation?
What about a commercial fund?
 
Some of our donors initially considered creating a private foundation. But the costs of start-up and administratoin, the lack of privacy, and limited tax deductibility associated with a private foundation led them to create a Donor Advised Fund with The Minneapolis Foundation instead.
 
Our donors have found they can make as great a charitable impact and enjoy the same level of recognition and family involvement a private foundation provides, while receiving greater tax benefits. And, unlike with commercial institutions, our donors can benefit from the expertise and personal service that come from working with an experienced, local philanthropic partner.
 
We invite you to compare the options for yourself:
 
  The Minneapolis Foundation Private Foundation Donor Advised Fund
at a Financial Institution
Services Available      
Strategy formulation
yes
fee-based
no
Grantmaking services
yes
fee-based
no
Peer networking
yes
n/a
no
Information on community issues
yes
fee-based
no
On-line grant recommendations
yes
fee-based
yes

 
 

Income Tax Deduction Limit



Cash gifts
50%
30%
50%


 
 
(percentage of Adjusted Gross Income - AGI)



Appreciated property
30%
20%
30%
Carry-over available
yes
yes
yes

 
 

Amount Deductible
(subject to percentage limitations)



Appreciated publicly-traded stock
fair market value (fmv)
fmv
fmv
Other appreciated property (long-term)
fmv
basis
n/a*


 

Administration and Fees



Minimum Payout (5% req.)
no
yes
in some cases
Start-up costs
none
varies
none
On-going requirements:



Separate tax return

no
yes
no

Accounting

no
yes
no

Record-keeping

no
yes
no
Investment management fees
varies
varies
varies
Administrative expenses
1%
varies
up to 1%
Excise Tax required
no
yes
no


* Many commercial gift funds do not accept gifts of real property, such as real estate, privately held stock,
S-corporation stock, or artwork.
 
Consult your tax advisor to see how these general rules apply to you.
 
 
 
Signature Funds Brochure
 
 
Signature Funds
 
Funds $1 million or greater in size can be designated as Signature Funds.
 
A Signature Fund provides the name recognition of a private foundation, along with the privacy, flexibility, and tax advantages of a Donor Advised Fund.

Download or order a copy of our Signature Funds brochure.

Contact us at (612) 672-3878 to further discuss your charitable giving options.
 
 
 
The Minneapolis Foundation is Confirmed in Compliance with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations.

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