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At Florida Hebrew University (FHU), your contributions are vital to ensuring that our Torah-based educational mission continues to thrive. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, donations to FHU are not only a fulfillment of the mitzvah of tzedakah and maaser, but also come with significant tax benefits. Your generosity can help build a future where Torah values guide the next generation, all while optimizing the impact of your giving.

 

What is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Foundation?

A 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation operates l’shem Shamayim—for the sake of Heaven—in areas such as chesed (kindness), Torah education, and other holy endeavors. The government acknowledges the importance of these causes by granting such organizations tax-exempt status. This means that your donations to FHU will be tax-deductible, allowing you to fulfill the mitzvah of tzedakah while also easing your financial obligations.

 

Understanding Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and Tax Deductions

Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is the total income you earn—such as wages, dividends, and other sources—after subtracting specific deductions, such as retirement contributions and tuition fees. Your AGI is crucial in determining how much of your charitable donations can be deducted from your taxable income.

When you give tzedakah and maaser to a 501(c)(3) organization like FHU, the IRS allows you to deduct a significant portion of your contribution from your taxable income. For instance:

• Deduction Limit: You can generally deduct cash donations up to 60% of your AGI. For example, if your AGI is $100,000, you may deduct up to $60,000 in donations to FHU in a given tax year. If you give $10,000 that year (which is 10% of your AGI), 100% of it will be deductible.

 

The FHU Merit Scholarship Fund: A Unique Opportunity to Multiply Your Impact

One of the most meaningful ways to support FHU is by contributing to the FHU Merit Scholarship Fund. This fund is a collective effort by the Jewish community to ensure that every deserving student can access a Torah-based education, regardless of financial means.

By contributing to the Scholarship Fund, you are not only supporting our students but also maximizing the benefits of your tzedakah:

• Tax-Deductible Donations: While tuition payments are generally not tax-deductible, donations to the FHU Merit Scholarship Fund are. This allows you to fulfill the mitzvah of tzedakah while benefiting from a tax deduction.

• Community Support: Your donation to the Scholarship Fund is part of a broader communal effort to provide tuition assistance to students. This approach strengthens our community by pooling resources to help those in need while also offering you the financial benefit of a tax deduction.

• Maximizing Impact: By choosing to donate to the Scholarship Fund, you ensure that your contribution has a dual impact: supporting Torah education and providing you with potential tax benefits. This option allows you to make a greater difference than a tuition payment alone.

 

Is Tuition Tax-Deductible?

While tuition payments to FHU are essential for providing a Torah-based education, they are generally not tax-deductible under U.S. tax law. Furthermore, FHU is not eligible for federal financial aid at this time, meaning that education-related tax credits, such as the Lifetime Learning Credit or the American Opportunity Credit, do not apply to FHU tuition.

However, donations to the FHU Merit Scholarship Fund are tax-deductible and provide an impactful way to support both our students and your financial planning.

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Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Please consult with your tax advisor to understand how these rules apply to your specific situation and to determine the best way to maximize your impact through charitable giving.