Frequently Asked Questions
Q Contribution to Overhead Costs: Why can't I contribute less than 3% for gifts over $500.00 and 5% for gifts over $5000?
A The 3% for > $500 and 5% for > $5000 is to cover banking and transaction charges which range between 2.4% - 5.9% for each gift transaction. The contribution also helps pay for a postage stamp, the check, envelope and brochure. Whatever is left goes towards our overhead costs. We've wanted this service to be free to give through but this is as close as we could get.
Q What happens if the recipient doesn't get the check or accidentally throws it in the trash?
A If that happens we will refund your money in whole. We'll also refund the contribution amount (if any) you paid to send the check.
Q What if the person I'm giving to doesn't call GA's toll free number to leave a 'Thank you'?
A Just to confirm they received and deposited your gift, we'll scan a copy of the check (when our bank gets it back) and email it to you showing the recipient's signature.
Q These gifts are not tax deductible? Why not?
A Because you are telling us who to send your gift to, the IRS does not consider it a tax deductible donation.
Q Taxes and Giving: If I give someone money will I owe taxes? Or... If I receive a gift do I have to declare it as taxable income?
A The IRS allows a person to give up to $13,000 in 2010 ($26,000 as a couple) to any number of people, every year, without facing any gift taxes. For example in 2010, you and your spouse together could give 100 different people a check for $26,000 and none of it would be subject to tax nor would it need to be declared. A Recipient will never owe income tax on a gift no matter the amount and should not declare it as income on their tax return.
Q Turn Around Time: If I process a gift now, how soon will it be before Giving Anonymously puts it in the mail?
A Before mailing a check we call or email the recipient to make sure the mailing address is correct and that they are willing to receive the gift. Our goal is to make contact with the recipient within 24 hours. Your gift will be mailed one to two business days after the recipient accepts their gift. (Exception: If you paid for the gift via E-check, it takes 7 days to clear our account. Gifts are mailed out on the 8th day)
Q If I let GA choose who to give my gift to how do I know it’s going to a legitimate / verified need? (Click here to give to someone we find in need)
A We ask for a written description of the need. We follow this up with a phone call. We also ask for at least two references from social workers, religious leaders or other non-profit entities in their community who know them and can vouch for their expressed need. We follow up on these references and do our due diligence to validate each request. Please note that because GA is not a 501c3 organization these gifts are not tax deductible.
