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Types of Gifts

Tax Deductions

Boston University, under IRS law, qualifies as a charitable and tax-exempt organization. If an individual makes a charitable gift to Boston University, that gift enables the donor to take an income tax deduction. A gift of cash can be deducted against up to 50% of the donor's adjusted gross income with any excess deducted against up to five successive tax years. A gift of appreciated assets can be deducted against up to 30% of the donor's adjusted gross income. Any excess charitable tax deduction can also be deducted against up to five successive tax years.

Cash Gifts

Credit card, personal or business check, wire transfers, and cash are considered forms of cash gifts.

Pledges

A pledge is a gift commitment made to Boston University that is paid in installments over a period of time.

Matching Gifts

Matching gifts are a corporation's way of multiplying the benefits of their employees' charitable gifts. If you or your spouse works for a company that offers a matching gift program, your gift to Boston University could be doubled or tripled. Find out if your company matches gifts by contacting your personnel or benefits office, or visit www.bu.edu/alumni/giving/matching. more»

Anonymous Gifts

Boston University is happy to facilitate the needs of those donors who are interested in giving anonymously.

Gifts of Securities

Boston University gladly accepts transfers of securities as gifts and/or pledge payments. more»

Leadership Giving Societies

With gifts of $1,000 or more (annually), you will become a member of one of Boston University’s Leadership Giving Societies. more»

Estate Gifts

The Office of Gift & Estate Planning assists with planned giving to Boston University through a variety of gift vehicles, including charitable gift annuities, charitable remainder/lead trusts, bequests, pooled income funds, and other estate plans. The Office provides numerous additional services, for more information please contact Gift and Estate Planning at 617.353.2254.

Other Giving Opportunities

There are many and varied giving opportunities at Boston University, please contact the Parents Program to learn more.