Donate to Independent Institute: Online, Mail, Stock & More

The Independent Institute offers a variety of methods for supporters to contribute financially, ranging from traditional options like online donations and mail-in checks to more complex giving strategies involving stock transfers, vehicle donations, retirement plan assets, and planned bequests. These options provide flexibility for donors and potential tax benefits.

Donation Options Explained

Individuals can donate online via a web portal, utilizing major credit cards or direct checking account transfers. These donations can be configured as one-time contributions or set up on a recurring schedule – weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually.

For those preferring traditional methods, a mail-in membership form is available for download. Completed forms should be sent to the Independent Institute at 100 Swan Way, Ste. 200, Oakland, CA 94621-1428.

Did You Know? Donors can avoid capital gains tax when donating publicly traded stock to the Independent Institute.

Gifts of Stock and Other Assets

Donating shares of publicly traded stock offers a potential tax advantage, as capital gains taxes may be avoided when the stock is sold by the Institute. The Independent Institute receives stock gifts directly through a brokerage account and applies the net proceeds to its mission of advancing free and prosperous societies. To initiate a stock gift, donors should contact Jacob Turnrose at [email protected] or (510) 632-1366.

Beyond stock, the Institute also accepts donations of vehicles – cars, trucks, RVs, and boats – through careasy.org, potentially offering donors a tax deduction for the vehicle’s value. Gifts from retirement plans are permitted under recent law and can be financially beneficial.

Expert Insight: The variety of accepted donation methods suggests the Independent Institute is actively seeking to maximize fundraising opportunities and accommodate diverse donor preferences, including those focused on tax-advantaged giving strategies.

Planned Giving and Cryptocurrency

Individuals can also make a lasting impact through planned giving, such as including a charitable bequest in their will. This allows donors to support the Institute’s long-term goals while preserving assets during their lifetime and potentially avoiding estate tax. Information on establishing a legacy gift is available through the Safe Harbor Legacy Society.

More recently, the Independent Institute has expanded its donation options to include cryptocurrencies – Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Basic Attention Token, and USDC. Donors are advised to use Coinbase.com to acquire these currencies and to contact the Institute for confirmation receipts for tax purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I donate online?

You can donate online via the Independent Institute’s web portal using major credit cards or your checking account. Donations can be set as one-time or recurring.

What information do I need to donate stock?

To donate stock, you need to contact Jacob Turnrose at [email protected] or (510) 632-1366, and then provide your broker with the specified account and DTC information: Wells Fargo Advisors, c/o First Clearing, Account: 6109-9372, DTC Number: 0141.

Can I donate through PayPal?

Yes, you can donate through PayPal by visiting this form.

Considering the expanding range of donation options, how might non-profit organizations adapt their fundraising strategies to appeal to a broader donor base in the future?