Donor-Advised Funds

Your Most Powerful
Charitable Giving Tool

A Donor-Advised Fund through Investors Philanthropic gives you the flexibility, tax advantages, and personalized service to make your giving as impactful as possible — on your timeline.

The Fundamentals

What Is a Donor-Advised Fund?

A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is a charitable giving vehicle that enables donors to grow their philanthropic assets tax-free while receiving guidance on investment strategy and charitable distributions. It is one of the fastest-growing philanthropic tools in America — and for good reason.

When you contribute to your IP Fund, you receive an immediate tax deduction. Your assets are then invested and can grow tax-free while you decide which charities to support. You can recommend grants to qualified nonprofits at any time — there is no rush, no annual distribution requirement, and no administrative burden on your part.

A DAF through Investors Philanthropic may be an ideal choice for donors seeking flexibility and simplicity. While private foundations offer distinct benefits, a DAF provides a streamlined path for achieving charitable impact without the administrative overhead.

Contribute

Make a tax-deductible contribution of cash, securities, or complex assets to your IP Fund. Receive an immediate deduction.

Grow

Your contribution is invested per your preferences and can grow tax-free while you decide which charities to support.

Grant

Recommend grants to your favorite qualified nonprofits on your own timeline. We handle all the administrative work.

Tax Advantages

Maximize Every Dollar You Give

Understanding the tax implications of your giving is essential. Here is what your IP Fund offers across different asset types.

Cash Contributions

Up to 60% AGI

Contribute cash and receive an immediate tax deduction of up to 60% of your Adjusted Gross Income.

Securities & Stocks

Up to 30% AGI

Contribute appreciated securities and potentially eliminate capital gains tax while receiving a fair market value deduction.

Real Estate

Up to 30% AGI

Contribute real property at fair market value. We accept complex real estate assets that most DAF providers cannot.

Private Companies

Up to 30% AGI

Contribute interests in private companies, LLCs, or partnerships — a powerful tool for business owners.

Hedge Funds

Up to 30% AGI

Contribute alternative investments including hedge fund interests and other complex financial instruments.

Other Assets

Up to 30% AGI

We work with your advisors to evaluate and accept a broad range of assets beyond traditional contributions.

* Contributions of appreciated assets may help reduce capital gains exposure, depending on individual circumstances and regulatory consideration. Consult your tax advisor for personalized guidance.

Complex Assets

We Accept What Others Cannot

Most DAF providers only accept cash and publicly traded securities. Investors Philanthropic goes further, accepting complex assets that allow high-net-worth donors to maximize their philanthropic impact.

Real Estate (residential, commercial, land)
Private Company Interests & LLC Membership
Hedge Fund Interests
Restricted & Closely Held Stock
Cryptocurrency & Digital Assets
Life Insurance Policies
Tangible Personal Property
Discuss Your Assets

For Financial Advisors & RIAs

Registered Investment Advisors are invited to work with our team to recommend investment strategies consistent with the donor's objectives. We are a partner to your practice, not a competitor.

  • Seamless integration with your existing advisory relationship
  • Collaborative investment strategy recommendations
  • Transparent reporting and communication
  • Support for complex asset contributions
  • Dedicated relationship management
Resources for Advisors
Comparison

DAF vs. Private Foundation

Both are powerful philanthropic tools. Here is how they compare so you can make the most informed decision for your giving strategy.

FeatureIP Donor-Advised FundPrivate Foundation
Setup Time
Days
Months
Administrative Burden
Minimal — we handle it
Significant — staff required
Tax Deduction (Cash)
Up to 60% AGI
Up to 30% AGI
Tax Deduction (Other Assets)
Up to 30% AGI (FMV)
Up to 20% AGI (cost basis)
Minimum Distribution
None required
5% annually required
Privacy
Anonymous giving possible
Public disclosure required
Investment Control
Recommend strategy
Full control
Excise Tax
None
1.39% on investment income

Ready to Open Your IP Fund?

Getting started is simple. Our team will guide you through every step, from account setup to your first grant recommendation.