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  • 1.  Pledge Reminder Examples

    Posted 09-29-2025 08:29 AM

    We are currently updating our pledge reminders and wondering if anyone would be willing to share their templates. We are adding in some language to address the overall (original) pledge amount inconsistencies when a pledge has been reduced due to donor advised or matching gifts. Would anyone be willing to share their templates?\

    Thank you!



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    Colleen Deal
    Appalachian State University
    dealcf@appstate.edu
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  • 2.  RE: Pledge Reminder Examples

    Posted 09-29-2025 08:39 AM
    Colleen, I look forward to seeing examples from everyone else!

    Regarding the language you mention, it's extremely important that donors understand the impact of third-party pledges when they make their commitments. This way, their "funny looking" reminder won't come as a surprise. That's why I've long advocated for using something like the following on our pledge forms:

    "The undersigned acknowledge that for our commitment to be fully recognized as a commitment to the [entity name], I/we are personally responsible for its satisfaction.  We may not make commitments on behalf of others.  Should related payments be received from third parties, [entity name] may voluntarily reduce our obligation by a similar amount."

    Regarding your reminders, you can add something like the following to all your templates (including those that haven't been reduced):

    "As a reminder, the total pledge amount may not reflect your original commitment, as IRS regulations do not permit us to apply third-party payments (e.g., donor-advised funds) to personal pledges. Instead, we will voluntarily reduce your commitment for gifts you have caused to be made."

    You will want to run any proposed language by Counsel to ensure compliance with IRS requirements.

    John

    John H. Taylor, Principal
    John H. Taylor Consulting, LLC
    2604 Sevier Street
    Durham, NC     27705

    919.816.5903 (cell/text)

    Serving the Advancement Community Since 1987