Make your intentions count.

Give with purpose. Plan with care.

Choose the purpose first, then the simplest structure and support that serve it. Evaluate obligations as carefully as benefits.

Personal fit. Clear tradeoffs. Room to skip.

The short answer

Choose the purpose before the structure.

Choose the purpose first, then the simplest structure and support that serve it. Evaluate obligations as carefully as benefits.

Worth considering when

Probably skip it when

Start with a better question

6 decisions to explore

Donor-Advised Funds

Evaluate whether a charitable account fits your giving plans and administration needs before contributing.

Philanthropic Advisory

Pay for clarity and implementation when your giving goals or evaluation work exceed the time and expertise you can give them.

Impact Investing

Examine the financial risk, fees and stated impact separately. A label is not evidence of either return or impact.

Family Foundations

A foundation is worth considering when the giving purpose requires its structure and your family can support the administration.

Estate Planning

The right level of help follows your family, assets and jurisdiction. Seek a plan you can keep current and put into practice.

Board Service

The fit depends on the mission, responsibilities and contribution you can reliably make.

The goal is a better fit, not a larger bill. Explore the tradeoffs, keep a shortlist and confirm the details of the options you actually want.