6 ready-to-use messages
Donation Thank-You Letter Wording
Sincere nonprofit thank-you letter wording for donors, from a one-time gift and recurring support to major gifts, in-kind donations, and brief acknowledgments.
Edited by Michael KahnUpdated
Heartfelt
Dear Patricia and Gerald, Your contribution of $10,000 to the Community Wellness Center will fund an entire year of free mental health services for families who could not otherwise afford them. We are profoundly grateful, and we would love the opportunity to show you the impact firsthand. With deep appreciation, Dr. Maureen Holloway Executive Director
Dear Anika, Thank you for donating to our Year-End Campaign. Because of supporters like you, we exceeded our goal by 18 percent, which puts more kids in our after-school program this winter. With gratitude, The Fulton Youth Center
Warm
Dear Ms. Walcott, Thank you for your gift of $75 to the Sunrise Literacy Fund. Your contribution will provide four children with reading materials for the entire school year. We are grateful for your generosity, and we will put every dollar to work. With appreciation, The Sunrise Literacy Fund Team
Dear Kevin, Thank you for donating the printing services for our annual report. In-kind support like yours reduces our overhead costs and allows us to direct more of our budget toward programs. We are grateful for your partnership and proud to have your business in our corner. Warmly, The Civic Arts Foundation
Formal
Dear Mr. Castillo, Thank you for your continued monthly support of our shelter. Because of recurring donors like you, we can plan ahead, keep beds available, and say yes when someone needs help tonight. We do not take that for granted. Sincerely, Harbor House
Dear Friend, Thank you for your recent gift. Your support helps us continue serving this community, and we are grateful. A formal acknowledgment for your records is enclosed. Sincerely, The Greenfield Foundation
A donation thank-you letter acknowledges the gift with warmth, and for larger donations it is also the official written record a donor may need for their taxes.
Common questions
What information must a donation thank-you letter include for tax purposes?
For gifts of $250 or more, the IRS requires a written acknowledgment that states the amount of the gift, confirms whether any goods or services were provided in exchange, and if so, estimates their value. Include this language clearly and send the letter promptly so donors have it for their records.
How personal should a nonprofit's donor thank-you be?
As personal as your resources allow. For major donors, a hand-signed letter from the executive director is the standard. For a large volume of smaller gifts, a well-written email that references the specific campaign and the impact of that gift level is far better than a generic form letter. Donors who feel acknowledged are more likely to give again.