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Giving FAQs
We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed philanthropic decision.
If your question does not appear in this list, please contact us at 1-806-291-3602 or email us at InstitutionalAdvancement@wbu.edu
How should I make out my check?
Checks should be made out to Wayland Baptist University and indicate the fund name, department or purpose for which they're intended in the memo section.
You can mail these to:
1900 W. 7th CMB 1295
Plainview, TX, 79072
Attn: Office of Institutional Advancement.
Are all gifts tax-deductible?
Gifts to WBU, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult your tax attorney or financial advisor to determine if your gift is tax-deductible.
May I specify how my gift will be used, and how can I be sure my gift will be used as I request?
You may direct your gift to a specific purpose within certain guidelines. IRS regulations prohibit contributions made directly to a specific student or family member to be processed as gifts for income tax purposes. WBU is required by federal, state, and university regulations to use gift money as directed by the donor. We are audited annually to verify compliance.
How do I know the university has received my gift?
A receipt and acknowledgement for every gift is mailed shortly after the gift is received.
What is the difference between restricted and unrestricted gifts?
Unrestricted gifts provide a funding source for WBU that is not limited to a specific program, college or department. These gifts are used where needed most throughout the institution to enhance the overall academic life of the campus. On the other hand, restricted gifts are earmarked for specific purposes chosen by the donor, such as an endowed scholarship or professorship, program or building.
Why are unrestricted gifts important?
Unrestricted gifts are of critical importance because they allow the university to provide funding in the areas of greatest need to meet unexpected challenges, take advantage of unique opportunities and meet the many day-to-day challenges of current higher education.
What is an endowed scholarship and what is the benefit of endowments?
An endowed scholarship is a permanent account maintained within the assets managed for the benefit of the University. It is permanent because the principal is never spent. Only earnings from investment of the principal may be expended for the designated purpose. A donor who gives an endowed scholarship knows that decades from now their gift will continue to provide funding for students to obtain their degree.
Will my company match my gift to Wayland Baptist University?
Many companies offer employees - and sometimes spouses and retirees - a matching-gift benefit that doubles or triples their donations to higher education. Companies have various methods by which you can submit your matching-gift request: online forms, automated phone systems or paper forms that you submit to the WBU Office of Institutional Advancement. Please visit your human resources office to learn more about matching-gift donations.