How to Take Advantage of Charitable Matching Gift Programs

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:TakeAdvantageCharitableMatchingGiftPrograms
Post By :
Anonymous
Rate:
Vote

How to Take Advantage of Charitable Matching Gift Programs

Introduction

One of the smartest ways to give is through a matching gift program, where a company - or individual - will match donations to charitable organizations. These matches are often dollar for dollar, which doubles your charitable-donation power.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Check with your company's human resources or payroll department to see whether it offers a matching gift program.
2

Step Two

Ask for donation guidelines and a list of eligible charities if your company does offer a matching gift program.
3

Step Three

Watch for matching opportunities through community or Internet fund-raising efforts if your company doesn't offer a matching gift program.
4

Step Four

Decide how much you want to donate and which organizations you want to donate to.
5

Step Five

Donate through the matching gift program, filling out the appropriate forms to ensure that the match is donated.

Tips & Warnings

  • Community-based matching gift programs often take place during the holidays and are often publicized in local newspapers.
  • Online charitable donation sites such as Charitableway.com frequently feature matching gift programs sponsored by corporations or individuals.
  • Before donating through a matching gift program, find out whether different giving methods (for example, credit card, check or money order; shop-for-charity; volunteering) result in different matching levels.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • IRS Forms
  • Tax Preparation Software
  • Ledger books
  • File Folders
  • File Cabinets
Tools: |