FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

 

Are the contributions tax-refundable?

NO, A-Fund is not a non-profit.  All contributions are not considered tax-deductable.

Why is A-Fund NOT a non-profit?

When A-Fund was drafted, and after lots of research here are the reasons why A-Fund choose to NOT be a non-profit;

1. According to our accountant and the IRS, only 20% of proceeds can be used for “other than specified causes” such as formation costs, legal costs, computers, supplies, and finally salaries.  One of A-Funds goals is to HIRE VETERANS.  As we grow we will be primarily hiring veterans to support the employment sector, the “made by a veteran, for a veteran” idea we have.
2. Contributions are exactly what they are intended for.  When you contribute to A-Fund or to a specific member you are aware that you are not looking for a tax-return, but genuinely willing to help the current members serving.  We use those funds to “fill in” any shortages (up to 20% of total requested cost).  Funds are also used to provide morale to current serving members upon request.
3. As a non-profit, board members (such as the founder) can be voted off, which will not allow the cause to be fully realized.

Where does the contributions to A-Fund go?

Up to 20% (if needed) is used as a safety net if the goal is not met.  Contributions provided by the public, business sponsorships, and any left over funds from member campaigns are also added here.

What if you raise over your goal amount?  

All contributions are non-refundable, if excess is raised it will be filtered back into A-Fund to help support those who raised at least 80% of their projected goal.  In addition, funds may also be used as needed to boost morale of the men and women currently serving or as A-Fund needs to meet its goals.

What if you do not raise at least 80% of your goal?

A-Fund will have items lined up that the funds can pay for through our affiliates.  We will work hard to ensure you are taken care of no matter the outcome.

Do the item(s) get delivered to the person, after the funding phase is over?

No, we use a 3rd party such as the members direct supervisor or leadership to deliver the product(s) to.

How do I contribute?

1.  A direct contribution to A-Fund, LLC in which we will use the funds to “fill in” any fundings that meet at least 80% of the goal.  We also use these funds to help boost the morale of the men and women who are currently serving in our armed forces.
2. If you know a military member (son, daughter, mom, dad, aunt, uncle, co-worker, home-town friend, college friend, etc.) you can contribute their direct account by searching their member number.  ONLY active accounts (found on contribute page) will have the option to contribute directly to that member.  IF MEMBER IS NOT TRANSITIONING STATION, SEPARATING, OR RETIRING, you cannot contribute directly to them.

How do you get verified as a military member?

We use a A-Fund affiliate company that is currently in the process of receiving AAFES approval to be located on our test base.

How do you protect military identities? 

Cyberthreat is serious issue A-Fund does not take lightly.  A-Fund will NOT contact you unless it is regarding a scheduled date and time that you provide.  In addition we use SSL certificates (look at the browser it begins with (https://) to ensure a secure online transaction.

• A-Fund only gathers your name, email, phone number, and military branch to sign up.  A paper form with security questions and answers that will be mailed to the A-Fund office.
• When receiving the validation of military status by our affiliates AND receiving your hand written answers, your unique member will be assigned and stored in a secured area at A-Fund headquarters.
• WE DO NOT ASK FOR SPECIFIC DATES.  To protect you as well, we will ask for the answers you provided in order to continue with the set-up of your account to be funded.
• A-Fund will not post your Rank and Full Name.  Your member number will be used along with your last name, first name initial, and hometown if you choose.  What you want to post is entirely up to you!

How do I become a member?

To become a member you will have to be currently serving in any branch as active duty, guard, or reserve.  You will be validated by one of our affiliates as well as provide your written answers to be mailed to A-Fund.  Once validated thats it!  Your unique member number will be updated on your profile.

How do I get funded?

1. You will need an assigned A-Fund number.
2. Next contact us between 1-3 months of your event to schedule consultation
3. After consultation, we will post your campaign on our site as well as your social media
4. Thats it!

Can I create a campaign myself?

No, we are NOT a crowdfunding site.  Our service ensures that funds being requested will be used for its intended reason.  Our services are based on the morale of troops and allows friends, family, businesses, and the community to contribute for that cuase.  Therefore, we will do everything we can to ensure you are changing stations, separating, or retiring.  This is validated by your immediate supervisor.

Can you contribute to yourself?  On a monthly basis?

Yes you can contribute funds to your campaign.  After consulting with our attorney we cannot receive funds and hold on to them for you (we are not a bank).  Our suggestion is to set up an automatic payment yourself with your bank if you want to put a couple dollars away ever month.

Can I ask for the funds instead of the item?

No, all funds are non-refundable.  If you decide you do not want the item we will suggest a different one instead.  If you do not want anything, the funds will then be absorbed by A-Fund in order to be used for another member.

What if your are separating under other than honorable discharge?

A-Fund ONLY helps to raise funds for HONORABLE DISCHARGES.  General discharges are taken by case by case basis.  All OTHER discharges (General Discharge for administrative issues, other than honorable discharge, Bad Conduct discharge, Dishonorable discharge,Officer discharge, and Entry level discharge) A-Fund reserves the right to refuse to provide service.

What if you have a military friend that makes things and you want him/her to make your item?

A-Fund primarily seeks out VETERAN VENDORS to make their products.  If you have a current military member or Veteran, contact A-Fund first before making promises to purchase.  Once validated we will work with him/her to produce the item of your choosing.