Is a Donor-Advised Fund Right for You?
The flexible, tax-smart way to give on your terms. A donor-advised fund lets you make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and recommend grants over time, with Ren's platform supporting your giving behind the scenes.
45%
of High-Net-Worth individuals and 55% of Ultra-High-Net-Worth individuals have a DAF, citing tax benefits and meaningful impact (2022 U.S. Trust Study of High-Net-Worth Philanthropy)
$326B
in total charitable assets held in DAFs nationally
$65B
granted to charities from DAFs
3.5M+
DAF accounts in the U.S.
How a Donor-advised Fund Works
- Contribution. You contribute cash, securities, or other assets to your DAF. Once you donate, you don’t have to grant until you’re ready but you receive an immediate* tax benefit for the donation. (*Some exceptions apply.)
- Investment. The funds you contribute can be invested, growing tax-free over time. You have the flexibility to recommend how the funds are invested, depending on which causes you want to support.
- Granting. Over time, you can recommend grants to qualified charities. Your DAF sponsor, supported by Ren’s platform, handles the administrative work; everything from due diligence on the charities to disbursing the grants.
Maximize tax efficiency
Receive a tax deduction for the full value of your donation in the year it’s made, grow your funds over time, and give when the time is right.
Give strategically
Spread your donations out over time, so you can support causes when it matters most to you.
Centralized management
A DAF acts as a single account for all your charitable donations, simplifying your record-keeping and making it easier to track your impact.
Potential growth
Contributions to your DAF can be invested and potentially grow tax-free, enhancing the amount available for charitable giving.
Multi-generational giving
Use your DAF as a tool for estate planning, involving your family in philanthropy and passing your values down through generations.
Privacy and control
Make grants anonymously if you choose, and recommend when and where your funds are distributed. Your giving strategy can evolve over time.
Is a DAF Right for You? Look for These Scenarios
- Had a high-income year — offset taxable income from bonuses, business sales, or stock options
- Own appreciated assets — donate securities or real estate to avoid capital gains taxes and get a full market-value deduction
- Are planning for the future — create a lasting charitable legacy that can involve your family
- Give regularly — simplify and organize your charitable contributions over time
Ready to Start Maximizing Your Impact?
Reach out to your financial advisor to discuss how a donor-advised fund, powered by Ren, can help you make the most of your charitable contributions.
