Grantmaking PolicyStandards for fair grantmaking

The current form requires organization details, an authorized representative, an IRS document, and a photo of the determination letter. A recent payslip or bank statement is optional. Successful submission produces a reference and confirmation; typical review takes 7 to 30 days.

Grants typically range from $500 to $100,000. Organizations anywhere in the United States may apply, and the current application deadline is December 25, 2026. Conditions for a particular award must be communicated by ACF.

Approval must be distinguished from an application receipt. Applicants should confirm any award terms directly with ACF and retain the correspondence with their reference.

If approved, support is provided only by bank check payable to the organization and mailed to its address. ACF requires no applicant payment to apply for or receive that support.

This policy sets the standards ACF intends to follow whenever it awards charitable funds, so that applicants know what to expect and reviewers know what is required of them.

• Published criteria for each opportunity
• Impartial review
• Written grant agreements
• Proportionate reporting
• Funds used only for charitable purposes

• Clear criteria published before applications open
• Confirmation that an application was received
• A decision communicated to the applicant
• No fees at any stage of the process

The policy calls for a written agreement describing the grant’s purpose and reporting expectations, proportionate to the award. Any actual award conditions must be confirmed in the award communication.