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Frequently Asked Questions

I would like to make a donation. How do I do that?

If you would like to make a donation, please visit our donation page.

How do I donate by check or money order?

If you would like to mail your donation, please make your check payable to Selby Gardens and mail to:

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Attn: Development Department
1534 Mound Street
Sarasota, FL 34236

Is my online donation secure?

Yes. Selby Gardens uses a secure server for online donations to protect your personal information.

Is my gift tax deductible?

Yes. Selby Gardens is exempt from federal income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable under the law.

Will I get a receipt for my donation?

Yes. When you make your donation online you will see a confirmation page and receive an email confirmation, either one of which may be used as an official receipt. We will also send you an acknowledgement letter, which you can expect within 1-2 weeks after we receive your contribution.

What is Selby Gardens Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number?

Our Employer Identification Number is 59-1848965.

Will Selby Gardens rent, sell, or trade my personal information?

No. Our privacy policy does not permit renting, selling, or trading of your personal information.

Who do I contact if I have a question about giving to Selby Gardens?

If you have any questions about giving, please email the Development department at development@selby.org or call us at 941.366.5731 Ext 224.

Does Selby Gardens accept securities as gifts?

Yes. If you have held a stock for more than a year and it is worth more today than what you paid for it, you will owe capital gains tax (currently up to 20% for some stocks) on the appreciation when you sell it. However, if you donate appreciated stock to Selby Gardens, you can avoid paying a portion of the capital gains taxes. Plus, you are still eligible to deduct the full fair-market value of the asset you donated from your income taxes, up to the total amount allowed by the IRS. This makes the benefits of donating appreciated stock substantially more valuable versus giving cash. Please contact your personal tax advisor regarding the best options for you.

 

Does Selby Gardens accept IRAs as gifts?

Yes. Avoid income tax and potential estate tax on your retirement assets. It’s a simple, straightforward way for donors of all ages to avoid double taxation and make a difference at Selby Gardens.

At the age of 70 ½, you are required to make a minimum annual withdrawal from your IRA, whether you need the income or not. This is called your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD). When you withdraw this income, the full amount is taxed based on your tax bracket for the year. However, you can avoid these taxes by making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA to Selby Gardens. The amount distributed directly to Selby Gardens will not be taxed as it will not be recorded as income.

Please contact your personal tax advisor regarding the best options for you.

Does Selby Gardens accept gifts via wire transfer?

Yes. Prior to making a wire transfer, please contact the Development department at 941-366-5731 or development@selby.org.

Does Selby Gardens accept matching gifts?

Yes. Many local and national employers will help multiply employee and retiree donations by matching their contributions. This means, if you give to Selby Gardens, they will too. Imagine the difference you can make by simply checking to see if your employer participates in matching gifts. To find out, contact your human resources department.

Does Selby Gardens accept vehicle donations?

Yes. Tax-deductible vehicle donations can be made through our partnership with CARSCARS accepts all types of donated vehicles (running or not) including cars, trucks, trailers, boats, RVs, motorcycles, campers, off-road vehicles, planes, heavy equipment, farm machinery, and most other motorized vehicles. Learn more here