PBS Utah has outlined several ways for community members to provide financial support to the station, including options for employer-matched gifts, stock transfers, and legacy giving through estate plans. As a department of the University of Utah, the station facilitates these contributions through the university's fiscal and administrative systems.
Employer Matching and Stock Gifts
Supporters can potentially double or triple the impact of their contributions through employer matching gift programs. According to PBS Utah, many companies will match a gift made to the station through the University of Utah. To participate, donors must verify their company's eligibility and may need to request a matching gift form from their personnel office to complete the process.
Stock and Bond Contributions
Donors may also contribute using publicly traded stocks or bonds. These gifts can be donated directly from a brokerage account to the University of Utah's account or via a stock power transfer. PBS Utah notes that donors can deduct the full present fair market value of such gifts without owing tax on the appreciation. However, donors are asked to notify the station when making stock gifts, as these transfers may arrive without donor identification.
Legacy Circle and Estate Planning
For those planning for the future, PBS Utah offers several legacy giving options. Individuals can include the station in their wills or revocable living trusts by naming it as a beneficiary. These gifts can consist of a specific dollar amount, a property item, or a percentage of an estate. Once an individual informs the station of their intention to include the station in their estate plans, they are automatically welcomed as members of the Legacy Circle.
Benefits of Legacy Giving
The Legacy Circle provides members with special benefits, including invitations to private events like station tours and luncheons, insider news regarding upcoming projects, and recognition on the station's website or on-air. According to donors Robert and Cheryl Marzec, joining the Legacy Circle allows supporters to help keep PBS Utah thriving for future generations.
Donor-Advised Funds
The station also accepts grants through donor-advised funds (DAFs), which allow for flexible, tax-efficient giving. While PBS Utah does not manage these funds, they can be established through various financial institutions. DAF gifts must be used strictly for charitable purposes and cannot be exchanged for anything of value, such as event tickets or memberships with benefits.
Retirement Account Distributions
Individuals aged 70 or older may utilize a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to donate up to $111,000 annually directly from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to a qualified charity like PBS Utah. These transfers bypass personal income, which may help manage taxes on Social Security or Medicare premiums. While QCDs are not eligible for a charitable deduction because they are excluded from taxable income, they may count toward a Required Minimum Distribution for those aged 73 or older.
Foundation Support and Mission
PBS Utah relies on various forms of support to provide educational, cultural, and public affairs programming across Utah and the Intermountain West. The station's programming is supported by numerous foundations, including the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation, and the Beesley Family Foundation, among others.
