Every donor’s story is unique, and the University of Minnesota Foundation provides several ways to turn your generosity into impact for the students, research and programs you care about most.
Ways to give:
Gifts of appreciated securities: Giving stocks, bonds or mutual fund shares held more than one year provides a double tax benefit. You can avoid capital gains tax on the appreciation of the donated asset that would be due upon sale and may claim an immediate federal income tax deduction for the current fair market value.
Donor-advised funds (DAF): Giving from your donor-advised fund is a simple, effective way to put your invested charitable dollars to work immediately. You can recommend a grant from your fund to support the University of Minnesota Foundation. Did you know that many DAFs allow you to name which charitable organizations you want to receive any funds remaining in the account at your passing? Contact your DAF sponsoring organization to learn more.
IRA qualified charitable distributions: If you are 70½ or older, you can make a gift of up to $111,000 directly from your IRA to the University. This allows you to support your favorite UMN cause without paying federal income tax on the withdrawal, and the gift can count toward your required minimum distribution.
Include a gift in your estate: By including the University in your will, trust or other estate plan, you ensure that the causes and programs you value today will continue to thrive for generations. Not sure how to get started? Download our free Estate Planning Guide at z.umn.edu/estateplanning.
Defining your purpose
Whether you give today or create a legacy for the future, all gifts can be directed to the campus, college or program you choose. You can give to an existing fund or create your own (certain minimums apply). You can even make your gift in honor or in memory of someone who has made an impact on your life.
Contact us
The University of Minnesota Foundation’s Office of Gift Planning is a service-oriented partner providing expertise in the gift planning process to donors and their advisors.To learn more about giving options, or to discuss how you would like to designate your gift in a way that would be most meaningful to you, please contact us at 612-624-3333 or [email protected].
May 2026