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Donor Advised Mutual Funds - Sure Way for Tax Exemptions

Donor Advised Funds are those which are established through the charitable giving by people with philanthropic interests. These are called donor advised because they allow the giver, the donor to recommend/advise the funds on how they can use their portion of the fund and on which charity the money may be used and how much. This article tells you in detail regarding:

  • Test your knowledge on donor advised mutual funds
  • Is it possible to get tax deduction in case of donor advised mutual funds?
  • What do you understand from the term operation of donor mutual funds?
You have seen so much of mutual funds that are devised to growing your capital or meeting your retirement needs. Donor advised funds are a different kind of mutual funds with a human face.

In simply terms, Donor Advised Funds are those which are established through the charitable giving by people with philanthropic interests. These are called donor advised because they allow the giver, the donor to recommend/advise the funds on how they can use their portion of the fund and on which charity the money may be used and how much.

They in addition to helping you claim a tax deduction from the gains you made but also give you that great feeling of sharing your fortunes with those in need. Donor advised mutual funds have come of age since 9/11, 2001 like never before. These are simply like establishing your own charitable funds.

How Do Donor Advised Mutual Funds Operate?

Most of the donor advised funds operate in much the same way as other funds but require contributions of at least $10,000 (except Vanguard, with a minimum $25,000 contribution). The subsequent contributions can be $1,000. The funds invest the money in various instruments spread in proportions decided by trustees and are professionally managed. Any charitable organization registered with Internal Revenue Service under clause 501(c)(3) public charity, becomes eligible to receive donations from these funds for the purpose of giving to deserving and gullible public or a cause. The donor may advise to distribute in minimums of $250 or $500. As of now the regulation on donor advised mutual funds about how much to distribute in charity varies depending on who the promoter is and the charity itself. For example, funds operated through investment companies are required to distribute a minimum 5% annually.

The pooled money is typically invested in instruments of a range of stocks for growth or a combination of growth and income. Some donor advised funds particularly favor money market instruments for income. Some of these funds allow you to switch your investments from one portfolio to another, in a limited fashion.

What Are The Tax Implications of Donor Advised Mutual Funds?

You get an immediate tax deduction as you make an investment with these funds. Stocks, funds in your name for a year's time get the tax benefit even if it appreciated for full amount. Any future gains, capital gains are exempted from tax computation. What is more? Your contributions will be permanently exempted from your taxable estate.
Are There Any Limits To Tax Deductions?
Yes of course, as long as your gifts (you can think of gifts as the amount you advise the fund to distribute to a charity or the actually distributed amount) are in cash and do not exceed 50% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) but if it is in the form of appreciated securities, the limit is 30%. Thus exceeding this limit will call for tax payment for the excess amount. You can also carry forward the unused deductions.

Continue to: Best Mutual Funds As Donor Advised Funds

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