Charitable giving is an incredibly noble pursuit and something that many business professionals endeavor to engage in, in order to give back and make a positive impact on society. In some cases, it’s beneficial to give anonymously. The reasons for doing this differ from person to person but could include personal privacy, modesty, or strategic reasons.
So, if you want to give to charity anonymously, read on for some ways to do just that.
1. Donor-Advised Funds
Donor-advised funds (DAFs) are a convenient way to discreetly make charitable donations. By contributing to a DAF, you can recommend grants to your chosen charities without letting people know that the person donating them, is you. These funds are typically managed by financial institutions or charitable organizations themselves.
2. Consult an Expert ─ Philanthropic Advisors
Another way that you can be certain your gift to charity will remain anonymous is by hiring a philanthropic advisor or consultant who specializes in maintaining privacy. These experts can assist you in ensuring your donations remain top secret.
3. Create a Foundation
For many, establishing a private foundation, or using one that already exists can be an effective way to give anonymously. Working through a foundation will allow you to make grants or give donations to charitable organizations without revealing any of your personal information, keeping your identity hidden.
4. Use Online Giving Platforms
Several online platforms or charitable websites now give you the option to donate online. These platforms allow you to contribute to a cause that you care about while remaining anonymous as you can do it through online channels. Gone are the days of writing checks!
5. Workplace Giving
If your business offers the option to take part in a workplace giving program, this can be a simple way to give anonymously. Many companies give their employees the option to support a charity of their choice, directly from their paycheck. This is a discreet and easy way to support a cause that’s close to your heart, and you don’t even need to think about it!
6. Explore the Option of Cryptocurrency
While this is a relatively new option, cryptocurrency donations offer you a level of anonymity as you can make transactions without disclosing your personal information. However, while some charitable organizations are now accepting cryptocurrency as donations, not all are. So, you’ll need to ensure the charity that you’re hoping to contribute to will accept this type of donation.
7. Gift Through Wills or Bequest
Bequests made through your will can be anonymous, and this is a way that you can make an impact even after your lifetime. So, why not consider adding a charitable donation to your will or estate plan?
8. Use Pseudonyms and Alternative Email Addresses
Lastly, a simple and efficient way to make charitable donations anonymously is by using a pseudonym rather than your real name when making an online donation. You may have to give an email address, but in this case, you can even create an email account that you’ll use solely for charitable causes. Using a pseudonym along with a private email address will keep your identity a secret.
