Giving FAQ
Giving FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Donations
Why give to Central Synagogue?
Your support makes an enormous difference to Central Synagogue. Today, more than ever, it is critical that we provide a warm and welcoming home for our members, for Jews, for our fellow New Yorkers, and beyond. In a time when community, compassion, and meaning seem to be disappearing from our daily discourse, Central finds ways to remain deeply committed to Jewish traditions in building our spiritual lives, raising our families, caring for the most vulnerable, and making the world a better place for all.
How do I make a gift to Central Synagogue?
The quickest and easiest way to make a gift to Central is through our online donation form. For full details on the many ways to make your contribution, including through donor-advised funds, a retirement plan qualified charitable distribution (QCD), a donation of stock, or by wire transfer, check, or credit card, please visit Ways to Give or contact our Development team at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), (212) 508-3026.
Can Central Synagogue accept gifts from foundations or donor-advised funds?
Yes. Please note that our full legal name is “Central Synagogue” and our EIN (tax ID) is 13-1628161.
Can I make a donation to Central from my IRA or other retirement plan?
Yes, if you are 70 ½ years or older, you can transfer funds from your IRA or other qualified retirement plans directly to Central Synagogue to fulfill your Yom Kippur Appeal pledge or pay your membership dues. This type of contribution, known as a QCD (qualified charitable distribution), can be a very tax beneficial means of charitable giving. For more information on how to make a gift this way, please contact our Development team at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), (212) 508-3026.
Can I make a pledge to Central or set up a recurring donation?
To arrange a pledge or recurring donation, please contact the .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
To which Central Synagogue fund should I direct my gift?
Many donors prefer to direct their donations to the annual Yom Kippur Appeal (YKA), which helps us fund what membership dues and tuition aren’t able to cover. This provides for our most essential services, including our worship services, livestreaming experience, and security. The YKA also helps us ensure that no family is ever refused membership to Central Synagogue for financial reasons.
You may also choose to make a donation to one of our many other funds, which recognize our Clergy members, support our adult and youth education, enrich our musical and spiritual offerings, provide for our Breakfast Program to feed the hungry, or pay special honor to a loved one. For more information, please visit the About Our Funds page.
Can I make a gift to Central Synagogue in honor or in memory of someone?
Making a gift in honor of a simcha or special person or in memory of a loved one is a long-standing tradition at Central. When you donate using our online donation form, you can choose to make your gift a tribute in honor or memory of someone, and also indicate anyone whom you would like to be notified of this tribute gift. If you make your gift using a different method, please be sure to indicate these details in a note with your gift.
If I make a gift to Central Synagogue, will I receive an acknowledgement letter?
Yes, if you make a gift to Central, you will receive a formal acknowledgement thanking you for your support either via email or printed mail. If you do not receive an acknowledgement within one week of making your gift, please reach out to our Development team at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)., (212) 508-3026.
If I make a gift to Central Synagogue, will it be recognized publicly?
Central Synagogue members who make a gift to the Yom Kippur Appeal are recognized in our annual Yom Kippur Appeal booklet, distributed shortly before the High Holy Days every year. If you would like your gift to remain anonymous, you can indicate that on our online donation form or with a note when you make your gift.
Are gifts to Central Synagogue tax-deductible?
Yes. Central Synagogue is a 501(c)(3) organization and all gifts made to Central are tax-deductible unless otherwise noted. You will receive a tax statement in January listing all of your charitable contributions to Central Synagogue for the prior calendar year.
Can I include Central Synagogue in my estate planning?
Yes, a legacy donation can provide for Central’s future by making the Synagogue a beneficiary of an estate. Please visit Central’s Your Legacy page or contact our Development team at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). to learn more about the L’Dor V’Dor Society and legacy giving. All inquiries are kept in strict confidence.
Does Central Synagogue accept in-kind donations?
Central accepts in-kind donations in certain circumstances when the donations will benefit the synagogue. Please contact our Development team at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).