The following is a message from Director of Athletics Todd Stewart which was sent to all Hilltopper Athletic Foundation members on December 21
As you may be aware, new tax provisions have been passed by the United States Congress and will become law once signed by President Trump. This will eliminate the deductibility of donations required with season ticket purchases through the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation and WKU Athletics beginning January 1, 2018. This includes seat premiums for Hilltopper football and basketball season tickets. There are no current plans to change the structure of the HAF Priority System and seat donation requirements; however, we will continue to evaluate the impact of these changes as this new tax plan evolves.
The Hilltopper Athletic Foundation remains committed to supporting the mission of WKU Athletics and will continue to encourage donors to give according to their own priorities and preferences and on their own schedule. However, with the imminent new tax plan set to take effect, donors may want to take advantage of current qualifying deductions by making contributions for 2018 prior to December 31, 2017.Â
Should this option be of value to you, you may make a gift online by logging into My Hilltopper Account or mail your gift to 1605 Avenue of Champions, Bowling Green, KY 42104. In order for your gift to be recorded in 2017, it must be postmarked on or before December 31, 2017. You may also call the HAF directly at 270-745-5321.
Neither the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation nor Western Kentucky University recommends specific tax strategies but rather encourages you to consult with your own tax advisors to determine how making a gift prior to year-end may benefit you.Â
Below is a Q/A to provide clarity regarding questions you may have.
We thank you for your continued support of the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation and Western Kentucky University.
Go Tops!
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Sincerely,
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Todd Stewart
Director of Athletics
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Q - How does this affect what I can deduct on my ticket purchases?
All required donations associated with season ticket purchases will not be eligible for tax deductions in 2018. Â
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Q - How does this affect what I can deduct on a gift not related to a ticket purchase?
Any donations to the HAF/Athletics that are above and beyond any ticket requirements will still be eligible for tax deductions. Participation in the 110%, 3rd & Goal or Topper Up Campaigns are examples of donations above and beyond ticket requirements which are still eligible to receive the tax deduction benefit in 2018.
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Q - How are my HAF priority points impacted?
The HAF Donor Levels, Rank and Priority Points system will not change. Required seat donations will continue to receive the same consideration towards donor levels, priority rank and benefits as in the past. Â
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Q - Can I make my 2018 gift in advance in 2017 to receive the tax deduction?
Yes, the HAF will accept any gifts for 2018 now. You can do so by logging into My Hilltopper Account online or submit your gift via mail post marked on, or before, December 31, 2017. Credit card payments must be processed prior to the end of the day December 31 to receive 2017 tax credit.Â
You can also mail your gift to:
Hilltopper Athletic Foundation
1605 Avenue of Champions
Bowling Green, KY 42104
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We advise you to consult with your tax advisor.Â
If you do not wish to make an advance payment, you can still renew your 2018 donation by signing up with one of our convenient payment plans allowing you to spread your gift over 12 months for 2018.
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Q - How do I log into My Hilltopper Account and make my 2018 Donation?
Visit www.SupportHAF.org and select Renew Gift. Then log in using your account/membership ID (), or current email address on file, for your username and then enter your password. Once in your account, select the 2018 HAF Donation Renewal invoice and follow the prompts to complete payment. Â
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In the event you do not know your password you will have the option to reset it by clicking on Forgot My Password. Â
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Q - How will I receive a tax receipt for my advance payment?
You will be issued a proper tax receipt prior to the end of January 2018 for your records. Should you not receive it please contact the HAF at 270-745-5321.Â
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Q - Will making the advance payment for 2018 affect my eligibility for benefits received through the HAF? For example, parking permits?
Making your gift in advance will not impact your eligibility for benefits in 2018. You will continue to receive the benefits in 2018 based upon your qualifying donor level.Â
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Q - Can I make advance payment towards my Diddle Suite and/or Harbaugh Club season tickets?
Please consult with an HAF representative. At this time advance payment for these premium areas is not available online.
