How to Use Tiered Due Diligence In Practice

This checklist provides a practical framework for applying tiered due diligence to donor relationships. Adopt a unique framework for three levels of risk:

• Checkpoint (low-risk, local donations)
• Survey (moderate-risk, recurring donors)
• Expedition (high-risk or major gifts)

See the key reviews and verifications appropriate for each level of donor risk. Within each tier, you’ll find clear steps for assessing:

• Identity
• Funding sources
• Reputation
• Mission alignment
• Compliance
• Visibility
• Geographic risk
• Monitoring requirements

Whether you’re screening a small one-time gift or evaluating a major global donor, this tool helps ensure your organization stays aligned with its mission while building a defensible, audit-ready due diligence process.