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General Giving FAQs

Why does Ohio University need my support?

  • Ten years ago, state funding accounted for 34 percent of Ohio University’s operating budget. But times have changed. Today, only 24 percent of the budget is state-funded. In order to keep the burden of dwindling state support from falling on the shoulders of future Bobcats, we depend on private gifts from you - our alumni, donors, and friends - to help bridge the gap and keep tuition costs down.

    Your gifts helps increase student financial aid, bolster research and creative activities, keep OHIO’s equipment and technology up-to-date, and enhance the Bobcat student experience - everything you do makes a huge difference in the life of our university!

How do I make a gift to Ohio University?

  • Give Online

    Our secure, online giving form is the easiest way to make your gift. To make an immediate gift using your credit or debit card, please visit www.ohio.edu/give

    Give by Mail or Phone

    If you prefer to make your gift over the phone or if you have questions while trying to make your gift, please contact us by phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form.

    To mail a gift, please make your check payable to The Ohio University Foundation. If you wish to designate your gift to a certain area, please write that in the memo line of the check.

    The mailing address is:

    The Ohio University Foundation
    PO Box 869
    Athens, OH 45701-0869

What are some gift options?

  • Gift of Cash

    A gift of cash is a simple and easy way for you to make a gift. You will receive a charitable tax deduction that will provide you with savings on this year's tax return, and you will make an immediate impact on Ohio University's mission. Did you know that you can deduct up to 50 percent of your adjusted gross income in the year you make a gift to Ohio University, and, if necessary, carry forward the balance of the deduction for up to five years? 

    To make an immediate gift using your credit or debit card, please visit www.ohio.edu/give. If you prefer to make your gift over the phone or if you have questions while trying to make your gift, please contact us by phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form.
     

    Gift Planning

    Ohio University's Office of Gift Planning can assist you in making a planned gift (such as an estate, bequest or trust). There are a number of donors who are benefiting from life income gifts, gift annuities, and other plans that provide favorable tax benefits.
     

    Matching Gifts

    Your employer may help you double or even triple your impact by matching your gift to Ohio University. Some companies even match gifts made by retirees and spouses. To find out if your company has a matching gift policy, please enter your employer's name below.

     

     

    If your company will match your gift, you may be able to access the forms directly through the search.If you are unable to access the forms directly through the search, please request a matching gift form from your employer, and send it completed and signed with your gift to the following address:

     

    The Ohio University Foundation
    PO Box 869
    Athens, OH 45701-0869

     

    Follow the set procedure, and if you run into any problems, we will be happy to assist. Please contact us by phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form.

     

    Memorial and Honorary Gifts

    If you have a friend or family member who has been touched by the promise of Ohio University, you are welcome to make a gift in honor of that individual. Gifts of any type may be made in honor of, or in memory of, a specific person. This type of gift is a thoughtful and meaningful way to recognize the accomplishments or memory of a colleague, professor, friend, or relative.

     

    The Office of Donor Relations notifies the honoree or relative regarding all gifts made in this way. For more information, please contact us by phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form.

     
    Payroll Deductions

    Please check with your company to see if they have a payroll deduction program. For OU employees, please use the following documents to initiate payroll deductions:
                       

     

    Gifts of Real Estate

    There are many options for donating real property such as your home, second home, vacation property, vacant land, farmland, ranch, commercial property or other real estate. Donors who make a gift of real estate can receive a charitable income tax deduction for the full market value of the asset and pay no capital gains tax on the transfer. Please click HERE for more information.

    Giving Retirement Assets

    A gift of your retirement assets [401(k), 403(b), pension or other tax deferred plan] is an excellent way to make a gift. Did you know that 50%-60% of your retirement assets may be taxed if you leave them to your heirs at your death? By designating The Ohio University Foundation as the beneficiary of all or part of your tax deferred plan (using a beneficiary designation form provided by your custodian), the full value of the gift is transferred tax-free at your death and your estate receives an estate tax charitable deduction. Click HERE to learn more.

    Giving Stocks, Securities, or Bonds

    A gift of your securities, including stocks or bonds, is an easy way for you to make a gift. By making a gift of your appreciated securities, you can avoid paying capital gains tax that would otherwise be due if you sold these assets. Please click HERE for more information, or to make an immediate gift, please use these STOCK TRANSFER INSTRUCTIONS.

    Gifts of Time and Talent

    There are a variety of ways you can get involved and make a difference at Ohio University:

     

Can I choose what my gift supports?

  • At Ohio University, we believe that you should be able to support what matters most to YOU. You can designate your gift to any area of the University. From academic departments and colleges, to varsity sports and student activities, the choice is yours! To view a list of options, please click HERE.

Is my gift tax deductible?

  • Yes. The Ohio University Foundation is an institutionally-related, nonprofit, tax exempt, 501(c)(3) organization, and is the repository for all private gifts to Ohio University. Contributions to The Ohio University Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent provided by law.Click HERE to access The Ohio University Foundation's tax exemption letter.

Can I make my gift in installments?

  • Yes. Donors often make gift pledges that can be paid over time. For example, if you pledge $1,000, you might fulfill the commitment with two $500 payments over the course of a year. Or if you pledge $8,000, you might fulfill the commitment with an annual gift of $1,000 over the course of eight years.

     

    We are here to assist you in making those decisions. For more information about pledging gifts, please contact us by phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form.

What is a gift-in-kind?

  • Gifts of goods or services to the university are referred to as gifts-in-kind. Please consult with your unit’s development officer if you are interested in making a gift-in-kind donation.

How do I set up a scholarship?

  • If you’d like to create a scholarship, please speak with your unit’s development officer or contact us by phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form. We’ll work with you to lay out how you want the scholarship to be awarded (for example, how much you want to be awarded annually and GPA / major requirements). You’ll need to make an initial gift of $1,000 to open a new account.

What is an endowment?

  • Just like a savings account, endowment funds generate income from the principal investment. Endowments create the foundation upon which universities build lasting financial strength and ensure academic quality. Once in place, endowments provide permanent support for teaching and research, student aid, and an abundance of other academic programs and activities.

    These dollars can support scholarships, equipment and software upgrades, student research, and more. Distribution of funds will  be subject to a specific set of guidelines formulated by The Ohio University Foundation in conjunction with you, the donor. You can create an endowment that will bear your name or the name of someone you wish to honor.

    Because the financial requirements for various endowment and naming opportunities differ, donors are encouraged to discuss their ideas with a staff member from the Office of Development.

    For more information please contact us via phone 800.592.3863, email or by using our web form.

How are endowment gifts managed?

  • Gifts to The Ohio University Foundation are managed in accordance with the Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (“UPMIFA”) adopted by the State of Ohio on June 1, 2009. UPMIFA provides guidance to charitable organizations for the management and investment of endowment funds. Spending authority for endowment accounts not underwater will be the product of a 4 percent spending rate and a 36-month moving average of fair market value. These accounts will also be subject to a 2 percent administration fee. Should market performance result in an unsustainable change in available spending, the Investment Committee of The Ohio University Foundation Board of Trustees will address altering the spending rate accordingly. In the event that endowed accounts are underwater, spending will be restricted to an amount equal to 1 percent of the 36-month moving average of fair market value. These accounts will not be assessed the 2 percent administration fee.

What’s the difference between an endowment and a restricted gift?

  • An endowment is kind of like a bank CD; after it’s been invested for a certain period of time (typically a full fiscal year), it generates returns that can be used in accordance with the account guidelines. The interest earned is the only portion that is ever spent. For example, if the John Doe Scholarship Endowment has positive returns in a given year, the university will use the interest it generates to award the scholarship in the following fiscal year. The benefit to this type of gift is that it continues in perpetuity; the drawback is that it takes a lot more money to have a big annual impact.


    A restricted gift, on the other hand, is designed to be used as soon as the unit needs it. As a donor, you can limit where the gift goes (a school, college, department, or scholarship, for example). The benefit to this type of gift is that it provides funding immediately for the cause you want to support. The drawback is that after the money is used, it is gone. So, for example, if you want to make a gift to create a scholarship, you would have to fund it annually if you’d like it to continue to be awarded.

Does Ohio University offer naming opportunities?

  • Naming opportunities exist at various giving levels to allow our donors to leave a legacy based on their individual desires. You can leave your print on Ohio University in your name, or in the name of someone you wish to honor or memorialize.

    Several naming opportunities exist including:

    • Academic Programs: Your gift can name a college, school, department, center, institute or special dean's fund. The endowments established by these gifts provide a margin of excellence for the programs they support.

    • Endowments : Just like a savings account, endowment funds generate income from the principal investment. Endowments create the foundation upon which universities build lasting financial strength and ensure academic quality. Once in place, endowments provide permanent support for teaching and research, student aid, and an abundance of other academic programs and activities.These dollars can support scholarships, equipment and software upgrades, student research, and more. Distribution of funds will  be subject to a specific set of guidelines formulated by The Ohio University Foundation in conjunction with you, the donor.

    • Facilities : Some gifts last a lifetime, while others last forever. Naming a building, laboratory or other available space is a remarkable way to leave your legacy at Ohio University. Gifts of that support facilities allow us to offer up-to-date environments for teaching, learning, community life, recreation and spiritual growth.

    • Faculty Support : Faculty support provides competitive compensation that supports recruitment and retention of faculty since the prestigious rank adds not only a salary supplement via carefully managed endowment earnings, but also discretionary funds.

    • Scholarships, prizes and awards : Scholarship incentives often play a crucial role as students make decisions about where to attend college and what major to pursue. Prizes and awards allow Ohio University to recognize outstanding work by undergraduate and graduate students. Your gift to scholarships, prizes, and awards will support the University's most precious resource: its students.

      The financial requirements for naming opportunities differ, so donors are encouraged to discuss their ideas with a staff member from the Office of Development.

      For information on OHIO's naming policy or establishing an endowment, please contact us via phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form.

When will I receive a receipt for my gift?

  •  You can expect to receive a receipt within 14 business days after The Ohio University Foundation receives your gift.

How do I obtain a copy of my tax receipt?

  • To obtain a duplicate copy of your tax receipt, please contact us by phone 800.592.3863, email, or by using our web form.

Who do I contact to find out information about a gift I’ve already made?

  • For questions about gifts, please contact Donor Relations at 740.593.4222.

How are donors recognized?

  • Ohio University is grateful for the support it receives from alumni, parents and friends. Public recognition of support is frequently expressed through honor rolls that may be in electronic or printed forms. If you prefer that your name not be listed in an honor roll or other recognition vehicles, please contact Donor Relations at 740.593.4222 if you have not already done so.

What are my rights as a donor?

  • Philanthropy is based on voluntary action for the common good. It is a tradition of giving and sharing that is primary to the quality of life. To assure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the general public and that donors and prospective donors can have full confidence in the not-for-profit organizations and causes they are asked to support, it is declared that all donors have these rights.

    1. To be informed of the organization's mission, of the way the organization intends to use donated resources, and of its capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purposes.
    2. To be informed of the identity of those serving on the organization's governing board and to expect the board to exercise prudent judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.
    3. To have access to the organization's most recent financial statements.
    4. To be assured gifts will be used for the purposes for which they were given.
    5. To receive appropriate acknowledgment and recognition.
    6. To be assured that information about donations is handled with respect and with confidentiality to the extent provided by law.
    7. To expect that all relationships with individuals representing organizations of interest to the donor will be professional in nature.
    8. To be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers or employees of the organization or hired solicitors.
    9. To have the opportunity for the donor's name to be deleted from mailing lists that an organization may intend to share.
    10. To feel free to ask questions when making a donation and to receive prompt, truthful, and forthright answers.

    The text of this statement in its entirety was developed by the American Association of Fundraising Counsel (AAFRC), the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP), the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

Gift Planning FAQs

What is a planned gift?

  • A planned gift is made through a separate legal instrument that is often deferred until a future date, such as a will, revocable trust, gift annuity, charitable remainder trust, charitable lead trust or life insurance. An outright cash gift or pledge is not considered a "planned gift."

    Ohio University's Office of Gift Planning  can assist you in making a planned gift. There are a number of donors who are benefiting from life income gifts, gift annuities and other plans that provide favorable tax benefits. 

What kind of assets can be used to make a planned gift to Ohio University?

  • Almost any asset can be used to make a planned gift to Ohio University including cash, stocks, bonds, real estate, and even retirement assets and life insurance policies. For more information on gift options, please click HERE. 

How do I include Ohio University in my will or living trust?

  • A charitable bequest is one of the easiest ways you can leave a lasting impact on Ohio University. A bequest may be made in your will or trust directing a gift to Ohio University. With the help of an advisor, you can include language in your will or trust specifying a gift to be made to family, friends or charity as part of your estate plan. Please click HERE for more information.

What are the benefits of a bequest?

  • In addition to the legacy you will leave on Ohio University, you will also receive an estate tax charitable deduction and lessen the burden of taxes on your family. A bequest is one of the easiest gifts to make. Learn more HERE.

What if I intend to give in the future gift but need some income for the present?

  • Ohio University offers several planned giving vehicles that can provide income for life or for a term of years. Examples include Charitable Gift Annuities and Charitable Remainder Trusts. LEARN MORE.

What is a Charitable Gift Annuity?

  • A Charitable Gift Annuity is a contract between you and Ohio University that provides you with a fixed income for life upon the transfer of assets. You will receive a charitable deduction for your gift and a portion of your income stream may even be tax-free. Click HERE for more information.

What is a Charitable Remainder Trust?

  • A Charitable Remainder Trust is a giving instrument that enables you to make a gift in exchange for an income stream for life or term of years. You can avoid paying capital gains tax on the sale of your appreciated assets and receive a charitable income tax deduction on a portion of your gift. If you are tired of riding the fluctuating stock market and want a fixed income, a charitable remainder trust may provide you with the stability you desire. Click HERE for more information.

What is the 1804 Society?

  • The 1804 Society is Ohio University's planned giving recognition society. You become a member in this society by giving, or committing to give, a planned gift (a bequest, trust, annuity, etc.) to The Ohio University Foundation. 

    Membership in the 1804 Society allows us to recognize you for the plans you have made and to inspire others with your generosity. Benefits of membership in the 1804 Society include an invitation to recognition events, inclusion on the membership roll on this page, and a membership pin. The most important benefit, of course, is the satisfaction of knowing that you have meaningfully contributed to the continued excellence of Ohio University and have made an impact on the lives of our students.
    LEARN MORE.

Are there other ways to make planned gifts to Ohio University?

  • There are dozens of ways to make planned gifts to Ohio University. The Office of Gift Planning is here to advise you on the best option for your particular situation. Please visit their website HERE, or you also may contact them directly by calling 740.593.4797.

Phonathon FAQs

Why did I receive a call from Ohio University?

  • If you received a call from Ohio University, it is likely that it was one of our students calling to ask for your support. We hope that you enjoyed the experience and were able to reconnect with campus, even if just for a little while. Ohio University's National Phonathon contacts an average of 75,000 alumni each year to update alumni records, inform them of events around campus, and ask for their support.

Who are the Phonathon callers?

  • While we use Wilson Bennett Technology to manage our phone center, all of the callers are actual Ohio University students. They really enjoy speaking with you and they love to hear about your experiences at the university.

    If you have any comments or concerns about your conversation, please contact us by phone 800-592-3863, email, or by using our web form.

    For more information, please contact the Wilson Bennett campus manager:

       Megan Duncan
       Manager, Ohio University Phonathon
       Wilson Bennett Technology
       mduncan@wilson-bennett.com