What is the Presidential Election Campaign Fund?

Every year when you file your taxes, you are asked a question about whether you want to donate $3 to the Presidential Election Campaign. The Presidential Election Campaign Fund (PECF) is a system of public funding for presidential campaigns in the United States. It was established as a result of the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA) in 1971, which aimed to reform campaign finance laws and reduce the influence of money in politics. Here is what you need to know about the Presidential Election Campaign Fund and what your $3 donation supports. 

The PECF Runs on Voluntary Participation 

The PECF is funded through voluntary contributions made by taxpayers on their federal income tax returns. Taxpayers have the option to allocate $3 of their tax payments (or $6 for married couples filing jointly) to the PECF. This contribution does not increase the taxpayer’s tax liability but is a way to fund presidential campaigns. 

The PECF is a Source of Public Financing for Presidential Candidates 

Eligible presidential candidates can choose to participate in the PECF system. If they do, they can receive public financing for their primary and general election campaigns. This funding is intended to reduce candidates’ dependence on private contributions and limit the influence of wealthy donors. 

Candidates Who Use the PECF Must Agree to Several Conditions 

Candidates who accept public financing through the PECF are subject to spending limits on their campaigns. These limits are designed to ensure a level playing field and prevent excessive spending in presidential elections. Candidates who opt for public financing must adhere to certain restrictions and reporting requirements, including limits on campaign spending and the use of funds. They also need to meet criteria such as demonstrating significant public support by raising a minimum number of private contributions. 

To qualify for matching funds, the candidates must raise over $5,000 in 20 different states. However, this $5,000 must consist of small contributions or $250 or less. They must also forgo private contributions. Because of all the rules surrounding the use of the PECF, many candidates now opt out of accessing the fund. In fact, the last major presidential nominee to accept public funding was John McCain in 2008. As of 2022, the PECF held more than $410 million.  

Donating to the PECF Does Not Affect Your Taxes 

Donating to the (PECF) does not affect your taxes in the sense that it increases your tax liability or reduces your tax refund. Instead, it allows you to allocate a portion of your federal income tax payment to the PECF voluntarily. In addition, it does not disqualify you from donating to presidential campaigns privately. Currently, an individual can contribute up to $3,300 per election and this $3 contribution to the PECF will not count towards that limit. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over $1 billion in resolved tax liabilities. 

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