Is Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation Legit?…

Quick charity verification for Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation (EIN: 133339941)

Spending Breakdown

How Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.

90%

Program Spending

Healthy — majority goes to mission

10%

Admin Costs

Reasonable — admin costs in check

Fundraising

Within typical range

How to read this: Well-run charities typically spend 75% or more on programs, keep admin under 25%, and fundraising under 15%. A high program ratio means more of every dollar goes directly to the mission.

How to Interpret This Report

What Red Flags Mean

Red flags are potential warning signs identified by AI analysis of IRS 990 filings. They may indicate issues like declining revenue, high executive pay relative to program spending, lack of transparency, or governance concerns. A single red flag does not necessarily mean an organization is untrustworthy, but multiple flags warrant further investigation before donating.

What Mission Score Measures

The Mission Score (0-100) evaluates how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated purpose. It combines multiple factors: program spending efficiency (how much goes to programs vs. overhead), financial health and sustainability, governance quality, transparency in reporting, and consistency of operations over time. A score of 70+ indicates strong alignment with the organization’s mission.

Using This Data for Donation Decisions

Use this report as one input in your decision. Look at the overall Mission Score for a quick assessment, review red flags and strengths for specific concerns, check the spending breakdown to see where money goes, and compare executive compensation to the organization’s size. Consider viewing the full transparency report for deeper analysis, and always verify tax-exempt status with the IRS before making large donations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation

Is Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation a legitimate charity?

Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation (EIN: 133339941) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 95/100. 0 red flags identified, 5 strengths noted.

Is Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation a good charity to donate to?

Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation has a Mission Score of 95/100. Revenue: $2.1M. Assets: $10.4M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.

What is the EIN for Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation is 133339941. This is the unique tax ID assigned by the IRS.

What is a Mission Score?

The Mission Score is a 0-100 rating that measures how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated mission. It factors in program spending efficiency, financial transparency, governance practices, and outcome reporting. Scores above 70 indicate strong mission alignment, 40-69 suggest mixed performance, and below 40 signals potential concerns.

How does Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation spend its money?

Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation allocates 90% to programs, 10% to administration, and 0% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.

How can I verify Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation's tax-exempt status?

You can verify Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation's tax-exempt status using EIN 133339941 on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. You can also request copies of their Form 990 directly from the organization, as they are required by law to provide them upon request.

AI Transparency Report

The Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation appears to be a well-managed private foundation with a strong financial position. With assets consistently over $9 million in recent years, reaching $10,434,126 currently, it demonstrates robust financial health. The foundation's revenue has fluctuated, with the latest reported revenue at $2,087,620, and expenses generally staying below or near revenue, indicating prudent financial management. For instance, in 2021, revenue was $1,504,146 against expenses of $1,203,745, showing a surplus. However, in 2023 and 2022, expenses slightly exceeded revenue, which is not uncommon for foundations making grants.

The foundation exhibits excellent spending efficiency, as evidenced by its consistent 0% officer compensation across all reported periods. This suggests that administrative costs related to executive salaries are non-existent, allowing a greater proportion of funds to be directed towards its programmatic goals. The very low liabilities reported in most years (often $1 or $3,000) further underscore a healthy balance sheet and minimal financial risk. While specific program spending percentages are not detailed in the provided data, the absence of officer compensation is a strong indicator of efficiency.

Transparency is high given the consistent filing of IRS Form 990s over a decade, providing a clear historical financial picture. The lack of officer compensation also contributes to a perception of transparency and dedication to mission. The foundation's consistent asset growth from $6,337,258 in 2011 to over $10 million currently suggests effective asset management and sustainability, ensuring its long-term ability to fulfill its mission.

Is Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation Legit?

Verdict: Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation appears trustworthy

Strengths