Policies and Disclosures

Gift Administrative Fee Policy

The ArtCenter Fund Allocation

In order to provide essential support for the College’s operational needs and ensure that your contributions have a lasting impact, we have introduced an allocation to the ArtCenter Fund as a gift administration fee to the College’s giving policies.

Effective January 1, 2025, eight percent of each gift made to a restricted fund will be allocated to the ArtCenter Fund. (Read full policy to see exceptions and more information.)

This allocation ensures the College has funds directed to support the resources needed to fulfill its mission, meet the needs of our students, faculty and staff, and drive innovation in art and design education, while ensuring our ability to effectively steward our donor resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ArtCenter Fund?

The ArtCenter Fund is an unrestricted donor fund that has been integral to the College’s philanthropic goals since its inception in the 1960s. The Fund is unrestricted, allowing for financial, foundational resources to be directed where needed most, enhancing the College’s ability to achieve its mission, support our students, faculty and staff and accomplish the purpose of any restricted gift. Learn more about the ArtCenter Fund here. 

How does the gift administrative fee work?

If a donor makes a gift of $100 to a restricted fund, $92 (92% of the gift) will be directed to the fund of the donor’s choice, and $8 (8%) will be allocated to the unrestricted ArtCenter Fund.

Can a donor offset the administrative fee?

Yes, donors have the option to cover the administrative fee by making an additional gift equivalent to the 8%. For example, if a donor makes a gift of $200, they can add $16 to the gift (8% of $200) for a total gift of $216. In this case, $200 will be deposited to the restricted fund of the donor’s choice, and $16 to the unrestricted ArtCenter Fund.

Do other colleges have this kind of policy?

ArtCenter’s policy aligns with standard practices among many colleges and universities, as well as other nonprofits across the country. Institutions may describe their gift administration fee policy as a gift assessment, a gift allocation or a gift fee.

Is my gift still 100% tax deductible?

Yes, the charitable status of your generosity remains unchanged, as does our deep gratitude.

Are there exemptions to the policy?

The administrative fee applies to all cash and in-kind gifts, with some exception. To read more, view the full policy.