Frequently Asked Questions

Explore options for making a gift to the Mercatus Center at George Mason University

Is my donation to the Mercatus Center, Inc. tax deductible?

Yes. The GMU Foundation, an educational 501(c)(3), accepts gifts on behalf of diverse campus organizations at George Mason University without taking any position on any organization's mission or statements. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by the law and may be eligible for a corporate matching gift. Our tax identification number is 54-1436224. 

How do I donate by mail?

GMUF-Mercatus Center
PO Box 358136 
Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5136

Please make checks payable to The GMU Foundation, with "Mercatus Center" in the memo line. 

How do I donate via direct debit?

We accept both ACH (Automated Clearing House) and wire contributions. If you’d like to make an ACH or wire contribution, please contact Dan Butler, VP of Development, at [email protected]

How do I donate stock?

To donate stock, please have your broker contact ours at Merrill Lynch using the following information:

Account Name: Mercatus Center
Account: 86Q-04152
Brokerage: Merrill Lynch
Broker’s DTC: 8862

At the time of the transfer, please notify Gary Leff, Chief Financial Officer, at [email protected]. Please provide: 

  • Your name and address
  • Name and number of securities transferred

How do I make a planned gift?

Learn how to make a gift while enjoying financial benefits here. Please contact us at [email protected] or 703-993-8384 to start a gift or learn more about your planned giving opportunities. 

How do I donate through my IRA?

You can find details on how to make this type of gift here.

How do I donate via Paypal?

Please visit our donate page and you will be able to select Paypal as a method of payment when filling out the form.

How do I donate cryptocurrency?

You can donate crypto and save on your taxes by clicking here.

What is your refund policy?

If you have made an error in making your donation or change your mind about contributing to the Mercatus Center, we will honor your request for a refund within 30 days of your donation. To request a refund, please contact Bill Phillips at [email protected]. Refunds are returned using the original method of payment. 

Where can I find your form 990?