Donor-advised funds have become a key part of how many donors plan their giving—but that strategy may be starting to shift.
With potential changes to charitable tax incentives beginning in 2026, donors may be rethinking how and when they use DAFs. For fundraisers, this creates an opportunity to guide more thoughtful, forward-looking conversations.
You don’t need to be a tax expert. You just need to help donors connect their giving decisions to the impact they want to make.
Your donor management software is your strongest asset to:
- Strengthen relationships with major and recurring donors
- Welcome new supporters into your community
- Inspire tax-deductible donations across all segments
Download your free guide to charitable tax changes in 2026 →
Why donor-advised fund conversations matter right now
Even though tax filing reflects past activity, it often prompts donors to think ahead. This makes tax season a natural entry point for conversations about long-term giving, not just past contributions.
They may be asking:
- How should I approach my giving in the future?
- Are donor-advised funds still the right fit for my strategy?
- Will upcoming changes affect how I give?
How to approach donor-advised fund conversations
The most effective conversations aren’t technical. They’re reflective and forward-looking.
Start with perspective
“Now that you’ve had a chance to think about your giving, it could be a good time to look ahead and talk about your goals moving forward.”
Introduce future planning
“There may be some changes to how charitable giving works in the coming years, so this can be a helpful time to think about how different options—like donor-advised funds—fit into your overall plans.”
Keep the focus on impact
Center the discussion on what the donor wants to accomplish, not just how the giving vehicle works.
Clarifying common questions about donor-advised funds
As conversations around tax changes increase, donors may have questions or concerns about DAFs.
“Are donor-advised funds still a good option?”
Yes. Donor-advised funds continue to offer flexibility and structure for long-term giving.
“Will donor-advised funds change in 2026?”
Some proposals may affect how tax benefits are applied, but DAFs are still expected to remain a widely used giving option.
“Should I change how I use my DAF?”
That depends on the donor’s goals. The key is helping them think intentionally about how and when they give. Positioning yourself as a steady, informed resource helps build trust, especially when details are still evolving.
How donor-advised funds fit into evolving giving strategies
As charitable giving incentives shift, donor behavior may shift as well. This doesn’t mean moving away from DAFs. It means helping donors use them more intentionally.
Some trends to watch:
- Donors may compare donor-advised funds with direct giving more closely
- Timing of contributions and distributions may become more strategic
- Long-term planning may take priority over short-term tax optimization
Using your donor management software to support DAF conversations
As you begin having more strategic conversations, organization becomes essential. Having this visibility allows you to provide more relevant, personalized guidance over time.
With the right fundraising system, you can:
- Identify donors who give through donor-advised funds
- Track patterns in how and when they give
- Capture conversation notes and follow-up opportunities
- Plan future outreach based on donor goals
3 ways to take action now
1. Identify your DAF donors
Start by pulling a list of donors who have given through donor-advised funds. This gives you a clear starting point for more focused outreach.
2. Start simple, low-pressure conversations
You don’t need a complex message. A short, thoughtful check-in is enough.
Example: “I wanted to check in and see how you’re thinking about your giving this year. I’d be happy to connect if you’d like to talk through any ideas.”
3. Plan for ongoing conversations
The most valuable discussions won’t happen all at once. Use your donor management software to track and revisit these conversations over time.
Example: “Over the next few months, it could be helpful to revisit how your giving strategy is evolving and how we can support your goals.”
Turn today’s conversations into long-term relationships
Discussions about donor-advised funds can feel complex, but they don’t have to be.
What donors are really looking for is:
- Clarity about their options
- Perspective on how to give effectively
- Confidence in their decisions
By focusing on their goals and helping them think ahead, you position your organization as a trusted partner, not just during tax season, but throughout their giving journey.
Donor-advised funds aren’t going away, but the way donors think about using them may evolve. Starting thoughtful conversations now helps you stay aligned with your donors as their strategies change and continue to build lasting relationships.
Get your free guide to navigating charitable tax changes in 2026
Download your free copy today!
