The letter must explain who is gifting the money, where the donor's funds are coming from and the relationship between the donor and the recipient. Your parents will need to file the proper forms with IRS declaring the gift.So no potential consequences of gift tax. Here are the top things you need to know when receiving mortgage down payment gift funds. Bonus: download a free gift letter template. One of the easiest and most common ways for you to support Santa Clara University is with a gift of cash. A mortgage gift letter is a statement that assures your lender the money that came into your account is a gift and not a loan. A gift letter is a note from the donor that says you don't have to repay the money. Public officials and employees are subject to certain restrictions related to receiving gifts, honoraria, travel payments, and loans.