Gift-in-Kind

A Gift-in-Kind is a non-cash donation of goods, property or services made to Kent State University. Per IRS guidelines, only tangible property or goods - not services - are considered charitable contributions eligible for a tax deduction. However, donated services are still recorded by the Kent State University Foundation for internal recognition purposes, and donors receive a formal acknowledgment. 

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Gift in Kind credit:

  • Kent State University must have a clear, intended use for the item(s).

  • The university must take full ownership of the item(s).

  • The donor must fully relinquish all ownership rights to the item(s).

  • All required documentation must be collected and retained for proper posting and audit compliance. 

Documentation Requirements

Multiple Items (Two or More Pieces) 

  • Receipt from donor (if available)

  • Itemized list with values showing what KSU would pay on the open market

  • Supporting links or documents from company websites demonstrating value

Single Item (One Piece)

Value: $1 to $4,999.99

  • Receipt (if available)

  • Comparable market documentation (e.g., online listings)

  • Supporting website links or printed documentation demonstrating value

Value: $5,000 and Above

  • Receipt

  • Signed, dated professional appraisal on company letterhead

  • Collections (e.g., books, artwork) with a combined value above $5,000 are treated as a single item and must meet appraisal standards

Note: If supporting documentation is not submitted, the gift will be recorded with a value of $1.00 for internal tracking purposes. 

Donor Contact Information

  • Donor's full name, mailing address, and phone or email are required to ensure proper receipting. 

Step-By-Step Guide
  1. Accept the Gift in Kind or Professional Service 
    1. DPAE staff will confirm it aligns with university needs and the Gift Acceptance Policy. 
  2. Obtain Donor Information 
    1. Full name, mailing address, email and/or phone number. 
  3. Obtain Fair Market Value Documentation 
    1. Examples: purchase receipts, invoices, online market comparisons or formal valuation statements. 
    2. If no documentation is available, the gift can be processed at $1.00. 
    3. Gift receipts and acknowledgment letters will not show value. 
  4. Obtain an Official Appraisal (if required – Kent State will not cover the cost of an official appraisal, it is the donor’s responsibility) 
    1. Mandatory for items or collections valued at $5,000 or more. 
  5. Submit a CASE for Processing 
    1. Form: Gift in Kind Submission Form 
    2. Attach fair market documentation. All gifts with a declared value of $250 or more will require approval from the KSU Foundation CFO 
Contact Us

For questions or guidance, contact us by email at gifts@kent.edu or by phone at 330-672-GIFT (4438).

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