How to Properly Deduct Your Charitable Donations
Aside from it being a good deed, making charitable donations is also a great way to lower your tax strain for the year. It is important to follow all the guidelines to successfully deduct donations.
Eligible Charities
- The first tip the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) says is to make sure youāre giving to a qualified organization in order to make a legitimate tax deduction.
- Ask the organization for their letter from the IRS.
You can also visit the IRS Exempt Organizations Select Check online search tool to verify the organization’s qualification for tax deductions. Contributions to political organizations, candidates and specific individuals cannot be deducted.
Churches, synagogues, temples and mosques are considered de facto charitable organizations. They arenāt placed on the list but they are eligible to receive deductible donations. The IRS recommends you ask them if youāre unsure at www.irs.gov.
Deduction Tips for Charitable Donations
- Choose a qualified charity.
- File form 1040 and itemize deductions on Schedule A.
- If you received benefits from the organization, you can only deduct the amount that exceeds the fair market value of the benefit received.
- Section B of form 8283 with a qualified appraisal must be completed for donations of more than $5,000.
- Make sure to get a receipt.
- Donations to individuals do not qualify for a tax deduction.
Keep Your Receipts
According, to TurboTax, you must save your receipts in order to back up any charitable contribution of $250 or more. Regardless of the amount, the IRS requires some type of proof that meets their requirements including:
- Bank record
- Payroll deduction records
- Written communication from the organization with date, amount and name
For text message donations, you must also present proof of the contribution. The IRS accepts a telephone bill corresponding to the period in which the donation was made. The bill must show the name of the organization, date and the amount given.
Be Aware of Scams
Signs of charity scams according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) include instances when a charity:
- Wonāt show their IRS letter
- Asks for cash or wire transfer donations
- Says āmust donate immediatelyā
- Doesnāt provide specific information about the organization such as their mission or how the contribution will be utilized
Take Solicitation Precautions
Unfortunately, even when you think you’re doing good, your charitable donations may not actually being going to a reputable organization. Make sure you ask questions of the charity you’re donating to.
- Ask for detailed information such as the address
- Research the organization and check for scams
- Call the charity
- Save information of your donation
- Never wire money
If you think youāre a victim of a charity scam, you must file a complaint with the FTC immediately.
To learn more information about deducting charitable donations visit www.irs.govĀ or our Tax Center page here. If youāre unsure of the process, consult your tax advisor.