If you’ve been thinking about opening a Donor Advised Fund, this is your week. To open a DAF before Ramadan and have it fully funded when the blessed month begins on February 17, you need to start the process now—ideally by February 11.
Here’s why the timeline matters, and exactly what to do.
The Math: Why This Week Is Critical
Opening a DAF with AMCF typically takes 5-7 business days from application to fully funded account. Let’s count backwards:
- Ramadan begins: Monday evening, February 17
- Subtract 5-7 business days: You need to apply by February 11 at the latest
That gives you three days to submit your application if you want a comfortable buffer. Wait until next week, and you’re cutting it dangerously close.
If you’re planning to fund your DAF with appreciated stock (which offers additional tax benefits), add even more time. Stock transfers can take 7-10 business days depending on your brokerage. That means stock transfer donors should have initiated the process already—but if you haven’t, call us today and we’ll help you move as fast as possible.
Why Bother? What You Get for the Effort
You might be wondering if it’s worth the rush. Here’s what changes when you open a DAF before Ramadan:
During Ramadan, giving takes 30 seconds. Your account is funded. Your tax deduction is already secured. When you want to support a cause—whether it’s your local masjid’s iftar program or an international relief organization—you log in, select the amount, click submit. Done.
No more mental math during worship. You’ve already decided how much you’re giving. You’ve already received the tax benefit. Ramadan becomes about intention and impact, not logistics and calculations.
Your wealth grows according to your values. While your DAF funds wait to be distributed, they’re invested in Shariah-compliant portfolios. AMCF is the only Shariah-compliant DAF provider in the United States—your charitable dollars never touch interest, alcohol, gambling, or other prohibited industries.
You can be spontaneous. When the imam mentions a family in need during tarawih, you can act immediately. When a friend shares a fundraiser, you don’t have to think about whether you can afford it—your giving fund is already set aside.
Step-by-Step: How to Open Your DAF This Week
Here’s exactly what the process looks like:
Step 1: Submit Your DAF Inquiry (10 minutes)
Visit our DAF application page and complete the inquiry form. You’ll provide basic information about yourself and your giving goals. This takes about 10 minutes.
Step 2: AMCF Team Review (1-2 business days)
Our team reviews your inquiry and reaches out—usually within one to two business days. We’ll answer any questions, explain your options, and guide you through next steps.
Step 3: Complete Paperwork and Fund Your Account
Once approved, you’ll sign the DAF agreement and fund your account. Funding options include:
- Wire transfer: Fastest option, typically same-day or next-day
- Check: Mail to our office, allow time for delivery and processing
- Stock transfer: Initiate from your brokerage, 7-10 business days
- Other assets: Contact us for complex gifts
The minimum to open a standard DAF is $2,500. If that’s more than you’re ready for, our Giving Account starts at just $1,000—same benefits, lower entry point.
Step 4: Your Account Is Ready
Once funded, you’ll have access to your DAF dashboard. From there, you can recommend grants to any qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the United States. During Ramadan, this is where the magic happens—seamless, intentional, joyful giving.
What You’ll Need to Apply
Gather these items before you start:
- Government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Funding source information (bank account for wire, brokerage details for stock)
- Initial contribution amount ($2,500 minimum for DAF, $1,000 for Giving Account)
- 10 minutes of uninterrupted time
That’s it. No complex financial documents, no lengthy approval process.
If You’re Reading This After February 7
Missed the comfortable window? Don’t give up.
Call us directly at the number on our contact page. Our team will do everything possible to expedite your application and get you set up before Ramadan begins. We can’t guarantee miracles, but we’ll certainly try.
And if we can’t get your DAF open in time? You can still give directly through AMCF and open your DAF for next year’s giving. The important thing is that you’re thinking strategically about your philanthropy.
Beyond This Ramadan
Opening a DAF isn’t just about one month. It’s about building a giving practice that serves you for years.
Since 2016, AMCF has helped Muslim families across America give more than $26 million to over 1,000 nonprofits. Our 240+ DAF holders use their funds not just for Ramadan, but for zakat throughout the year, for spontaneous sadaqah, for responding to emergencies, for supporting causes their families care about.
This week’s effort sets you up for a lifetime of simplified, values-aligned giving.
Your Action Item for Today
Don’t bookmark this post for “later.” Later is how Ramadan arrives and you’re still scrambling.
Start your DAF application now →
Have questions first? Join us for our Get to Know AMCF virtual event on February 12—but submit your application this week so your account is processing while you learn more.
The window to open a DAF before Ramadan is closing. This is your week. Make it count.