Donor identification
Full legal name, contact, and tax identifier when required; this ties the gift to donor records and supports IRS documentation.
A written contribution agreement clarifies donor intent, supports tax substantiation, and reduces later disputes. It creates a record for accounting, internal approvals, and stewardship of restricted gifts.
Typical participants include the donor, the nonprofit’s development officer or CFO, and, when applicable, legal counsel or a notary public.
Clear role delineation helps ensure valid authorization, accurate tax acknowledgments, and enforceable terms when gifts are restricted or conditional.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signing Order | Donor → Nonprofit signer → Legal reviewer |
| Authentication | Email link or SMS code for donor verification |
| Audit Trail | Enable timestamp, IP, and action log capture |
| Storage | Save final PDF to donor record and secure archive |
Ensure your platform supports secure e-signatures, audit trails, and the integrations you use for donor records.
Choose a platform that preserves an unalterable final copy, captures signer attribution, and stores a searchable audit trail alongside donor records.
Full legal name, contact, and tax identifier when required; this ties the gift to donor records and supports IRS documentation.
Clear statement of cash amount or detailed description of property, including valuation method for noncash gifts and any delivery timing.
If restricted, include explicit instructions on permitted use, conditions for release, and reporting expectations to honor donor intent.
Include a statement ofreceipt or acknowledgment suitable for the donor’s tax records; avoid valuation statements for noncash gifts unless performed by qualified appraisal.
Note any expectations (e.g., matching conditions, installments, or revocability) and steps if conditions are unmet.
Authorized nonprofit representative must sign and date; include witness or notary fields if required by donor or state rule.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | No | No | Yes, limited | Yes, limited |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |