Ways to Give
The Phillips Collection is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit museum. We are primarily funded through the support of our guests, members, donors, and sponsors. Your generosity fuels our mission, and we are deeply grateful.
Make a Gift Today
Other Ways to Give
Donor-Advised Funds
The Phillips welcomes gifts made through Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) for fully tax-deductible purposes. Please notify us if you have recommended the Phillips for a DAF gift so we can send our thanks!
Please note that, according to IRS rules and guidelines, contributions that provide “tangible economic benefits” to a donor in exchange for their gift may not be paid for in full or in part by a DAF, unless the donor waives those benefits. This includes but may not be limited to the benefits of memberships at the Contemporaries level and above and tickets to events such as our Annual Gala.
Consult with your tax advisor or DAF representative for further guidance.
IRA Qualified Charitable Distributions
If you are 70 ½ years of age or older, you can currently transfer up to $100,000 from your IRA for fully tax-deductible purposes to the Phillips without incurring income tax.
Please note that, according to IRS rules and guidelines, contributions that provide “tangible economic benefits” to a donor in exchange for their gift may not be paid for in full or in part by an IRA, unless the donor waives those benefits. This includes but may not be limited to memberships at the Contemporaries level and above and tickets to events such as our Annual Gala.
Consult with your tax advisor or IRA provider for further guidance.
Family & Private Foundations
The Phillips welcomes gifts and grants from family and private foundations.
Please note that, according to IRS rules and guidelines, contributions that provide “tangible economic benefits” to a “disqualified individual”—such as a member of the foundation’s board, staff, or their families, etc.—may be prohibited if they constitute what the IRS calls “self-dealing.” This includes but may not be limited to the benefits of memberships at the Contemporaries level and above and tickets to events such as our Annual Gala.
Consult with your tax or legal advisor to determine if receiving any benefits complies with the IRS restrictions related to” self-dealing.” You can read more about how the IRS defines “self-dealing” on their website.
Wire Transfers & Stocks
If you would like to make a gift via wire transfer, or a gift of stock, the Phillips is happy to provide the appropriate banking information, upon request.
Please note, the museum’s current policy is to liquidate stock as soon as is feasible upon receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my DAF or IRA to pay for a membership?
We welcome DAF or IRA payments to pay for a membership at the Individual, Dual, and Reciprocal Friends levels.
DAF and IRA payments may also be used to pay for memberships at the Contemporaries level and above, which offer “tangible economic benefits,” but only if you choose to waive those benefits. Otherwise, DAF and IRA payments may not be used in full or in part for memberships at these levels.
Can I use my DAF or IRA to pay to attend the Annual Gala?
No, DAF and IRA payments may not be used in full or in part to purchase tickets or sponsorships that include tickets to our Annual Gala as admission to this event and the After Party can be considered “tangible economic benefits.”
However, we welcome fully charitable donations from DAFs and IRA distributions that support the Annual Gala’s fundraising efforts. Each year, The Phillips Collection Annual Gala and After Party raise critical funds for our innovative education and community engagement programs.
Can I make a personal payment to cover the fair market value of my membership or Annual Gala tickets and use my DAF or IRA to pay for the rest?
No, the Phillips does not accept bifurcated gifts. This means DAF and IRA payments may not be combined with a personal payment for purposes that provide “tangible economic benefits,” unless you waive those benefits. This includes but may not be limited to the benefits of memberships at the Contemporaries level and above and tickets to events such as our Annual Gala.
The Phillips Collection’s Federal Tax ID: 53-0204620
Download The Phillips Collection 501(c)(3) Tax Exemption Letter
The Ways to Give page reflects The Phillips Collection’s policies as of September 2025 and is subject to change in accordance with IRS rules and guidance. Always consult a tax professional or legal advisor if you have questions about the best vehicle for your giving.
Contact Us
For help making a gift, or to request banking details, please contact:
Sarah Andrews, Gift Processing Coordinator
sandrews@phillipscollection.org
202.387.2151 x268
Learn more
Interested in becoming a Phillips Member? Find the Friends or Circles level of membership that’s right for you!
Interested in other opportunities to support The Phillips Collection? Please contact the Advancement Department at advancement@phillipscollection.org.