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Glossary

Matching Gifts

Many companies encourage philanthropy by creating programs that match employee and retiree gifts to charity. Such programs are completely voluntary and are not regulated by industry or law, so there is wide variation from program to program. Some programs match gifts on a one-to-one basis, some match higher and some match lower. Some programs match up to a maximum amount per year and some limit the types of charities that are eligible for a match. Most matching gift programs match gifts to higher education and many match gifts to endowment. Some programs even match gifts from spouses.

The employee or retiree must initiate the match process, usually through the human resources office (it may be as easy as doing it online). And while there is no income tax charitable deduction allowed for the match, Clarkson gives gift credit to the individual for the matching gift, thus making it possible for someone to increase their total giving through a match.

Matching gifts play a major role in fundraising and are worth the time and effort to include in your philanthropic plan.

This web page does not provide legal or financial advice, nor is it a comprehensive review of the topic. You should consult your legal and financial advisors and Clarkson University before making or planning your gift. (rev 9/2011)