Gifts of Securities or Mutual Funds

Gifts of appreciated securities are often a more tax-efficient way to make charitable gifts compared to cash. Most gifts of appreciated securities that you have held long term (defined as more than one year) are fully deductible at fair market value, and you do not incur a tax on unrealized capital gain.

There are several instances when you may find gifts of appreciated securities as the preferred way to make your charitable gift:

• When you wish to increase your cost basis in a stock you intend to hold
• When you wish to rebalance your portfolio
• When you wish to donate cash or holdings in your closely held corporation
• When you want a higher yield
• When a takeover is contemplated

To donate appreciated securities
By Phone:
If your broker or bank holds your securities:

1. Ask your bank or broker to transfer your gift of securities to the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center electronically. If your broker needs instructions on electronic transfer, please ask them to call the Danforth Center Development Office at 314.587.1695.


2. Then write a brief note identifying yourself (name and contact information) and describing the number of shares, the name(s) of the stock(s), your broker's name and phone number, and whether you wish to direct your gift for the annual fund, endowment or special programs. Mail your note on the same day to:

Matt Wichmer
Danforth Plant Science Center
975 N. Warson Rd.
St. Louis, MO 63132

Or call to relay the above information to the development office (314.587.1695)

Gifts of mutual funds
Mutual fund shares that have appreciated in value make a great charitable gift with similar tax advantages to those from gifts of other appreciated securities. In general, mutual fund shares must be transferred by the mutual fund company. To make a gift of mutual fund shares, you should ask your mutual fund company to provide you with instructions and the forms necessary for making a charitable gift. If you have questions, please call us at 314.587.1695.