Donor Advised Funds

A Notre Dame Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is a simple, tax-efficient way to support the University and your other favorite causes. Think of it as a charitable investment account; with a minimum gift of $500,000—or $250,000 if the fund is dedicated entirely to purposes at Notre Dame—your gift is invested alongside the Notre Dame Endowment without direct fees, allowing your generosity to grow over time.

The ND DAF is structured into two distinct components: a retained fund dedicated to supporting specific programs within the University, and a distributable fund that offers the flexibility to recommend grants to external 501(c)(3) organizations. It is a powerful, flexible tool designed to serve as your partner in long-term, mission-aligned philanthropy.

Ways to Contribute

• Cash
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  Cash

  Cash donations to the University of Notre Dame aren't just for immediate needs; they can also fund various planned giving options.

  You can make an outright gift of cash in several ways:

  Online: Use the secure online donation form.
  Phone: Call (574) 631-5150 with your credit card details.
  Mail: Send a check or money order, indicating any specific purpose in the memo or an accompanying letter.
  Wire Transfer: Contact Donor Services at (574) 631-5150 or givegift@nd.edu for instructions.

  For year-end tax planning, remember that mailed checks postmarked by December 31st qualify for a deduction in that tax year.

  Provides multiple giving methods—online, by phone, mail, or wire transfer—and includes guidance for year-end tax planning, noting that donations postmarked by December 31st count for that tax year. 

  Contact information is provided for donor assistance.

• Securities
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  Securities

  The simplest way to transfer securities, such as stocks, to Notre Dame is through a depository trust company (DTC) transfer. For more information on how to transfer securities or to make a gift of securities, please contact Allison Thornton at 574-631-2591 or acullers@nd.edu. Please have the following information available when you call:

  • The name and type of securities to be gifted (public, restricted, mutual fund, etc.).

  • The number of shares you intend to gift.

  • The date you intend to make the gift.

  • How you would like the gift directed.

  • Your name and address.

  Complete instructions on making a gift of securities