Comparison of Giving Options

Waco Foundation Donor-Advised Funds Private Foundation Commercial Gift Fund
Investment and Tax Considerations of:
Investments Donor may choose from Waco Foundation's four investment pools. Donor-appointed board controls investments. Donor may choose from among firm's investment pools. 
Tax Status Covered under Waco Foundation's public charity status Must apply to IRS for private foundation tax exempt status Covered under nonprofit status of corporate entity's charitable subsidy 
Income Tax Deduction for Gifts of:
Cash Up to 50% of adjusted gross income Up to 30% of adjusted gross income Up to 50% of adjusted gross income. 
Publicly Traded Securities Fair market value up to 30% of adjusted gross income Fair market value up to 20% of adjusted gross income Fair market value up to 30% of adjusted gross income.  
Real Estate & Closely Held Securities Fair market value up to 30% of adjusted gross income Deductible at cost basis Fair market value up to 30% of adjusted gross income. Usually not accepted. 
Distribution Requirements None At least 5% of net asset value annually Varies; some require a minimum of 5% of the fund's net assets on a five-year rolling basis 
Grantmaking
Grantmaking Recommendations Donor recommends grants to qualified nonprofit groups. Grants are approved by Waco Foundation board of trustees. Donor-appointed board controls grantmaking. Donor recommends to qualified nonprofit groups. Grants are approved by trustees of the gift fund. 
Grantmaking Expertise Staff can help identify and assess grantees, provide input on community needs and local nonprofits. Must arrange and support its own grantmaking and monitoring structure Most do not offer personalized advice on grantee selection 
Start-up Considerations
Costs None Several thousand dollars for legal and accounting expenses and filing fees None 
Time Frame Immediate Several months Immediate 
Minimum Contribution None Not cost-effective unless $8 million or more Usually $10,000 to $25,000 for individuals 
Minimum Gift Size None None Usually minimum of $500 
Annual Administrative Requirements
Fees .75% annually Grantmaking, administrative and investment support must be covered. Based on size of fund, usually starting at 1% of assets and declining for larger funds. 
Taxes None Excise tax of 2% of net investment income, including net capital gains None 
Reporting Requirements None Annual tax return, including detailed financial schedules None 
Privacy Donors may remain anonymous. Donors may remain anonymous, but IRS 990 form lists officers, directors, and trustees. Donors may remain anonymous.