Generally, you can deduct your contributions of money or property that you make to, or for the use of, a qualified organization. A gift or contribution is "for the use of" a qualified organization when it is held in a legally enforceable trust for the qualified organization or in a similar legal arrangement.
The contributions must be made to a qualified organization and not set aside for use by a specific person.
If you give property to a qualified organization, you generally can deduct the fair market value of the property at the time of the contribution.
Your deduction for charitable contributions is generally limited to 50% of your adjusted gross income, but in some cases 20 and 30% limits may apply.
The total of your charitable contributions deduction and certain other itemized deductions may be limited.
Use the following lists for a quick check of contributions you can or cannot deduct.
Deductible as Charitable Contributions
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Money or property you give to:
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churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, and other religious organizations
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federal, state, and local governments, if your contribution is solely for public purposes (for example, a gift to reduce the public debt)
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nonprofit schools and hospitals
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public parks and recreation facilities
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salvation Army, Red Cross, CARE, Goodwill Industries, United Way, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, etc.
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war veterans groups
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Costs you pay for a student living with you, sponsored by a qualified organization
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Out-of-pocket expenses when you serve a qualified organization as a volunteer
Not Deductible as Charitable Contributions
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Money or property you give to:
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civic leagues, social and sports clubs, labor unions, and chambers of commerce
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foreign organizations (except certain Canadian, Israeli, and Mexican charities)
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groups that are run for personal profit
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Cost of raffle, bingo, or lottery tickets
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Dues, fees, or bills paid to country clubs, lodges, fraternal orders, or similar groups
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Tuition
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Value of your time or services
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Value of blood given to a blood bank
See Publication 78 for a list of most qualified organizations (www.irs.gov under Charities and Non-Profits) or call 1-877-829-5500 M-F 8am - 6:30 pm EST.