Frequently Asked Questions About the Foundation

What does the Former Agents of the FBI Foundation do?
The mission of the Former Agents of the FBI Foundation is to preserve the shared FBI values and the ideals of the FBI Family; to support the welfare of members of the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI, family members, and others in need; and to promote education, history and humanitarian service through scholarships and programs.

Are the Foundation and the Society the same entity?
No. The Former Agents of the FBI Foundation is the 501c3 nonprofit affiliate of the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI, Inc. It is a legally separate organization, and is not funded by membership dues from the Society. The Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI, Inc. is recognized by the IRS as a 501c7 organization, which identifies it and is defined as a social club organized for pleasure, recreation, and other similar non-profitable purposes and substantially all of its activities are for these purposes.

What about tax deductibility?
Contributions to the Former Agents of the FBI Foundation are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. However, gifts to the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI are not deductible. Please consult with your tax attorney or accountant regarding tax matters.

 Where does the Foundation's support come from?
The Former Agents of the FBI Foundation is funded through tax-deductible contributions made by members of the Society, the FBI family, members of the law enforcement community, as well as other friends of the Society.

How do recipients receive support from the Foundation?
 The Foundation's Board of Trustees receives and reviews all applications from those who request assistance or who apply for scholarships from the Foundation. After a rigorous review process, the decision is made by majority vote of the Board of Trustees.

Can I designate my gift to the Foundation?
 Yes, gifts to the Foundation may be designated to any of the following funds: 

  • General Fund
  • Scholarship Fund
  • Disaster Relief
  • Martyrs and Remembrance Fund
  • History Fund
  • Grapevine Contribution
  • Lifetime Members

Where do gifts to the Foundation General Fund go? 
 Gifts to the General Fund are used for the charitable purpose where they are needed the most (scholarships, disaster relief, humanitarian aid, awards, financial assistance, etc.)

What about memorial gifts?
 Foundation contributions that are made as a tribute in memory of or in honor of someone, unless otherwise designated, go into the General Fund.

Besides scholarships, what other programs does the Foundation support?
 The Foundation comes to the aid of those affected by disasters and unforeseen emergencies; contributes to organizations supporting law enforcement; helps Society members, current agents, and members of the FBI Family, their spouses and/or dependents who have fallen on hard times or are in need of temporary financial relief; and presents annual awards and financial contributions to other charitable organizations.

What about the Society Building Fund?
 Gifts to the Building Fund are contributions to the Society, not the Foundation, and are not tax-deductible.

How do I apply for a Foundation scholarship?
 For questions about the Scholarship Program, CLICK HERE to read the Frequently Asked Questions about the Scholarship Program.

What is the minimum contribution to the Foundation required to start a scholarship in someone's name?
 Please contact the Foundation Office at (703) 291-3736 if you are interest in leaving a legacy in this way.

Who qualifies for financial assistance from the Foundation?
 Society members and members of the FBI Family, their spouses and/or dependents who have fallen on hard times or who are in need of temporary financial relief to due serious injury or illness.

I am not a Society member. Can I still apply for Foundation assistance?
 Except for providing scholarships to children of current National Academy Associate members who are actively engaged in law enforcement, the Former Agents of the FBI Foundation only helps Society members and members of the FBI Family, their spouses and/or dependents for assistance.

How can I contribute to the Former Agents of the FBI Foundation?
 Gifts of cash, check, money order, or credit card can be sent to the Foundation Office. Online donations by credit card can be made by clicking on the DONATE icon in the top navigation of this website.

Does the Foundation accept gifts of stock, insurance or real estate?
Yes, the Foundation does accept non-cash gifts. Please contact the Foundation Office at (703) 291-3736, if you are interested in making a non-cash donation.

How do I leave the Foundation in my will or estate plan?
To leave the Former Agents of the FBI Foundation in your will or estate plan, you will need the following information:

Legal Name:  Former Agents of the FBI Foundation
Address:        3717 Fetter Park Drive, Dumfries, Virginia 22025-2048
IRS EIN:         20-4715708