Charitable Donations - What Qualifies?

Not all donations you give are actually considered Charitable Contributions and therefore deductible on your tax return as an itemized deduction. See the list below for some common deductible Charitable Contributions, and another list of some common donations that are not deductible.

Deductible as Charitable Contributions

Money or property the taxpayer gives to:

• Churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, and other religious organizations

• Federal, state, and local governments, if the taxpayer's contribution is solely for public purposes (for example, a gift to reduce the public debt)

• Nonprofit schools and hospitals

• Public parks and recreation facilities

• Salvation Army, Red Cross, CARE, Goodwill Industries, United Way, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, etc.

• War veterans’ groups

Expenses paid for a student living with the taxpayer, sponsored by a qualified organization

Out-of-pocket expenses when the taxpayer serves a qualified organization as a volunteer

Not Deductible as Charitable Contributions

Money or property the taxpayer gives to:

• Civic leagues, social and sports clubs, labor unions, and chambers of commerce

• Foreign organizations (except certain Canadian, Israeli, and Mexican charities)

• Groups that are run for personal profit

• Groups whose purpose is to lobby for law changes

• Homeowners’ associations

• Individuals

• Political groups or candidates for public office

Cost of raffle, bingo, or lottery tickets

Dues, fees, or bills paid to country clubs, lodges, fraternal orders, or similar groups

Tuition

Value of the taxpayer's time or services

Value of blood given to a blood bank

If you have any questions about this or any other accounting related topic, please do not hesitate to contact us here at Peachtree CPA Group in Peachtree City, Georgia.