Donor Advised Funds FAQ

 

(If you are an advised fund grant recipient looking for information, click here)

How often should I recommend grants from the Advised Fund?

We encourage you to recommend grants from your fund on a regular basis. Some advisors choose to do it annually, while others offer their recommendations semi-annually or quarterly.

How will I know how much is available in the fund for grantmaking?

Each March and September you will receive an advisor packet. The packet will contain a financial statement that details the activity of the fund and the amount available for recommending grants. This information is also made available online via Fund Xpress.

Is there a minimum grant amount?

Individual grant recommendations of $1,000 or more are strongly preferred. The minimum grant amount is $250.

What kind of organization may I recommend for a grant?

You may recommend a grant to nonprofit public charity, school or other government program. Our staff can assist you in identifying if an organization is eligible to receive a grant.

May I recommend a grant to an organization outside Oregon?

Yes. Grants may be recommended to any qualified nonprofit organization in the United States. We do request that at least 50% of your recommended grants go to Oregon nonprofits.

May I recommend a grant to an organization outside the United States?

International grants can only be made when the nonprofit organization has a recipient United States entity.

Can I recommend a grant online?

Yes. OCF offers Fund Xpress, a secure fund information site for the advised funds program. Fund advisors can submit grant recommendations, view fund financial information and search for nonprofit organizations in need of support.

Can I remain anonymous to a grant recipient?

Yes. Let us know when you submit your grant recommendations. Anonymity can be accommodated on an ongoing or grant-by-grant basis.

May I recommend a grant to an individual?

No. According to IRS regulations, OCF may make grants only to qualifying nonprofit public charities or government entities.

Can I fulfill a pledge through my advised fund?

No. The IRS views pledge fulfillment of a pledge as a direct benefit to fund advisors because it alleviates the advisors of a personal financial obligation. Fund advisors may be subject to fines by the IRS if a grant from your advised fund is used as a pledge payment.

 

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