Fill Out Your Donation Form

When individuals complete a donation form, they often overlook important details that can lead to complications or delays. One common mistake is to skip filling in the SHRM ID section. This identification number allows the organization to track donations accurately. Without it, the donation may not be credited to the donor's account, resulting in disappointment later if they wish to claim recognition for their contribution.

Another frequent error involves failing to specify the amount of the donation. While the form provides several pre-set options, some donors mistakenly leave this section blank or write an amount in the “Other” field without adequately specifying it. Such oversights can delay processing and prevent timely acknowledgment of the gift.

Donors also sometimes neglect the dedication information. If an individual wishes to dedicate their donation in honor or memory of someone, omitting that detail means the organization cannot properly commemorate this intent. Providing this information ensures that the individual or event related to the donation receives the recognition they deserve.

A fourth mistake occurs when individuals attempt to make a monthly donation but fail to check the appropriate box. If the box indicating a monthly commitment is left unchecked, the donor may inadvertently set up a one-time donation instead. This mistake can lead to misunderstandings and unmet charitable intentions.

Completing the contact information section with missing or incorrect entries is also common. Donors may forget to fill in their daytime phone number or provide an email address. Incomplete contact details hinder the organization from reaching out for confirmation or additional information about the donation.

Another area where mistakes often arise is in the payment information. Donors can make errors by incorrectly filling in the credit card number, expiration date, or CVV code. Inaccuracies in these details can result in payment processing issues, which might require additional effort to resolve.

Many people rush through the signature section as well. Failure to sign the form or date it correctly can lead to delays in processing. The lack of a signature is a common reason forms are returned or set aside for further inquiry.

Leaving out details regarding recognition credits can also be a misstep. If someone wishes to direct credits to a specific SHRM Chapter or State Council, a failure to provide the necessary information means the donation may not be acknowledged properly in the donor's preferred venue. This can be frustrating for those who are actively involved in their local organizations.

Lastly, not following the submission instructions can create confusion. Some donors neglect to follow through by either mailing the form to the correct address or opting for the online donation option. Adhering to the submission guidelines ensures that the donation reaches the intended destination without unnecessary delays.

When making a donation, several related documents may come into play to ensure everything is processed correctly. Here are a few common forms you might encounter alongside the Donation Form.

• Payment Authorization Form: This document allows donors to authorize the organization to charge their credit or debit card for a specified amount. It includes details about the card holder as well as the terms of the transaction.
• Dedication Letter: If a donor wishes to dedicate their contribution, this letter outlines the specifics of that dedication. It may include information about who the gift honors or memorializes, and it serves as a formal acknowledgment for the recipient.
• Tax Receipt: After processing a donation, the organization generates a tax receipt for the donor. This document confirms the amount donated and includes the organization's tax identification number. Donors need this receipt for tax deduction purposes.
• Charitable Contribution Acknowledgment Form: This form is sometimes used to provide additional recognition for larger donations. It helps the organization track who should receive acknowledgments or credits for contributions made on behalf of individuals or groups.

By understanding these forms, donors can navigate the donation process more smoothly and ensure that their contributions are recognized appropriately.

• Fundraising Form: Similar to a donation form, a fundraising form is specifically designed to solicit funds for a cause. Both documents provide options for contribution amounts and often include sections for donor information and payment methods.
• Membership Application: A membership application seeks to enroll individuals in a particular organization. Like the donation form, it typically requires personal and contact information, along with options for different membership tiers.
• Pledge Form: A pledge form allows individuals to commit to making future payments. This is akin to the commitment made on the donation form, where individuals can indicate intentions for ongoing support or one-time donations.
• Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet: A volunteer sign-up sheet encourages individuals to contribute their time and skills. Both forms involve participant information and express a desire to support a cause, whether through financial donations or volunteer work.
• Grant Application: A grant application is used by organizations to request funding. It often requires detailed information about the project and budget, similar to how a donation form details the intended use of funds and organization affiliation.
• Sponsorship Proposal: A sponsorship proposal outlines a request for financial backing from a business or individual. It often mirrors donation forms by highlighting benefits to the sponsor and the impact of their financial support.
• Event Ticket Purchase Form: This form is completed to buy tickets for specific events. Similar to a donation form, it gathers attendee information and payment details, often providing options for different ticket types or levels of support.
• Certificate of Appreciation Request: This document is used to request an acknowledgment for donations or support. It requires donor information and reflects the desire for recognition, akin to the dedication information section in a donation form.
• In-Kind Donation Form: An in-kind donation form is used to document non-monetary contributions to an organization. It includes details about the goods or services being donated, similar to how the donation form captures specific giving choices.
• Corporate Match Donation Form: This form is submitted to request a matching gift from an employer. It parallels the donation form in that it requires both donor and organization information, revealing the donor's intent to amplify their charitable contribution.

Here are eight important tips for filling out the Donation form:

• Verify your donation amount before finalizing the form.
• Provide accurate contact information to ensure proper recognition.
• Specify if you are donating in honor or memory of someone.
• Double-check the payment method and details.
• Use a secure method to submit personal information.
• Don’t forget to sign the form if paying by credit card.
• Do not leave any required fields blank; incomplete forms may cause delays.
• Avoid outdated payment methods; check if your card is currently valid.

Misconceptions often surround donation forms, leading to confusion. Here are seven common misconceptions about the Donation Form:

1. You can only donate a specific amount listed on the form. Many assume that the amounts are fixed. In fact, you can choose "OTHER" and specify any amount you wish to donate.
2. Donations are not tax-deductible. Some believe donations are not tax-deductible. However, the SHRM Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, making your gift tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
3. Only individuals can donate. It's a common misconception that only individuals can contribute. Organizations and companies can also make donations and fill out the organization section on the form.
4. Donations are anonymous by default. While you can choose to remain anonymous, the form typically requires your information to issue receipts and recognition credits, if desired.
5. Monthly donations aren't available. Many people think they cannot set up recurring donations. The form clearly allows for commitments to monthly giving, making it easier for donors.
6. You cannot dedicate your donation. Some may think dedicating a donation is not an option. The form provides a section specifically to dedicate gifts in honor of someone or in memory.
7. Payment options are limited to checks and credit cards. While checks and major credit cards are accepted, many are unaware that you can also make secure online donations through the specified website.

Here’s a helpful guide to filling out and making the most of the Donation form. Understanding the process can make your contribution more impactful.

1. Choose Your Donation Type: Start by selecting an amount that feels right for you. Options range from $30 to an amount of your choice, empowering HR professionals and supporting inclusive organizations.
2. Recognition Credits: If you want your donation to benefit your SHRM Chapter and State Council, be sure to provide the relevant details. This allows your contribution to support local initiatives.
3. Consider Monthly Donations: Opting for a monthly donation is a way to make a consistent impact. You can also join the Leadership Circle by committing to significant donations over three years.
4. Dedication Options: Are you looking to honor or memorialize someone? Use the form to dedicate your donation in their name. This adds a personal touch to your contribution.
5. Provide Accurate Contact Information: Include your complete donor information, such as your name, organization, and contact details. This ensures you can receive confirmation and updates.
6. Secure Payment Information: Clearly fill out your payment method. Whether you choose a check or credit card, providing accurate details ensures your donation goes through smoothly.
7. Understand Tax Deductibility: Your donation is tax-deductible, which means you can feel good about your gift while also benefiting during tax season.
8. Check Submission Guidelines: If mailing your form, send it to the appropriate address at the SHRM Foundation. This ensures it gets processed without delays.
9. Consider Online Donations: For convenience, you can also make a secure donation online at the SHRM Foundation’s website. This can be quicker and easier than mailing a form.
10. Keep a Copy: It’s wise to keep a copy of your completed donation form for your records. This can be handy for tracking your contributions.

Remember, every contribution makes a difference. By filling out the Donation form thoughtfully, you’re playing a vital role in supporting HR initiatives and promoting inclusivity in organizations.