Classifying An Asset for Charitable Purposes

Many are unaware that the assets of a private foundation (PF) can be categorized as held for either investment or charitable purposes. However, the classification as one or the other can be of crucial importance to a PF. A PF’s investment assets are included in its asset base in calculating its 5% annual minimum distribution requirement (MDR), whereas assets used—or held for use—in carrying out a PF’s charitable purposes are excluded from such asset base.