FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why should I give to CSUB?
Your generosity—along with that of our other friends and supporters—makes possible the programs, scholarships, and research that are the hallmarks of our mission. You get the personal satisfaction of supporting our students, and you also make a personal statement about your values and ideals, help create a better world, and leave a lasting legacy. Learn more about what your gift will actually accomplish on our Gifts in Action page.
How do I know if I have enough to make a planned gift?
Planned giving isn’t about wealth—it’s about creating a lasting difference. The best planned gift is one that reflects your values, supports the people and causes you care about, and aligns with your circumstances and goals. In fact, some of the most meaningful planned gifts cost you nothing during your lifetime. This website is designed to make it easy to explore your options, but since every donor’s situation is unique, our team stands ready to answer questions and offer personalized guidance. Contact us now.
How do I know which gift is right for me?
There are many ways to give, and the best way for you may differ from the best way for someone else. You can write a check or pay by credit card. You can transfer stock, bonds, retirement plan assets, or real estate—often with tax advantages. You can make a gift that costs you nothing right now, such as a gift in your will or living trust or a charitable beneficiary designation on an IRA, life insurance policy, or financial account. You can make a gift that secures a lifetime income stream for you and/or others. We’ve made it easy to explore various gift opportunities on our Ways to Give page.
How does a gift in my will or living trust work?
This is a powerful way to plan a gift now that will be completed sometime in the future. It costs you nothing today, and you can change your gift during your lifetime if your needs or circumstances change. Simply designate in your will or trust that at your death, CSUB will receive a specific amount or property, a percentage of your estate or trust assets, or even what remains in your estate or trust after all other obligations have been met. Learn more about this popular way to give, and request a free Will and Estate Planning Guide, on our Gift in Your Will page.
What if I’m still having trouble determining the best gift for me?
Every situation is different, and sometimes the best fit isn’t immediately clear. We are always here to help! We would be happy to send you more information, run calculations that may bring clarity to your decision-making, or schedule a confidential conversation. Please reach out to us here.
Can I designate how my gift will be used?
Yes! An unrestricted gift goes into our general fund to support our overall mission. However, you can choose to direct your gift to a certain program, department, or scholarship. Simply specify your wishes in a letter of intent, Memorandum of Agreement, or the memo portion of your check. Learn more about making your gift more meaningful on our Gifts in Action page.
I’d like to make a gift, but I’m not sure this is the right time.
We value your support! We encourage you to explore the website now so you can be aware of your gift options when the time comes. You may be interested in easy ways to make significant gifts that cost you nothing today. Learn more about the various ways to give, and please contact us if you have any questions specific to your personal circumstances.
What is CSUB's Donor Privacy Policy?
The California State University, Bakersfield Foundation (Foundation) and Division of University Advancement (UA) are deeply grateful for the generosity of its donors and are committed to treating their personal information with the utmost care and respect. To uphold this commitment, we protect donor privacy and honor donor rights in accordance with our Donor Privacy Policy. We encourage you to review this policy to learn how we safeguard the personal and financial information entrusted to us.