Grantmakers, donors and their advisors regularly reach out to CMF to learn more about donor advised funds (DAFs). While DAFs have been a philanthropic tool available to individuals, families and companies for decades, they have been increasingly popular over the last ten years. Between 2017 and 2021, contributions to DAFs grew from $31.38 billion to $72.67 billion, now comprising approximately 15.0% of all giving in the United States.

This resource is intended to explore frequently asked questions involving donor advised funds. Please note that DAFs are a continued topic of regulatory debate, and federal and/or state rules that affect the operation of DAFs are subject to change.