Donating Money to a Charity or Non-Profit Organization

Charitable contributions of money (cash, check, or credit/debit card) are deductible on your income tax return if the right records are kept. Record-keeping rules changed over the past several years for these tax deductions. For contributions of less than $250 each, the taxpayer must keep either a bank record (i.e., cancelled check or credit card receipt) or a written communication from the charity showing the name of the organization, date of contribution, and dollar amount. Contributions of $250 or more require a written acknowledgement from the organization received by the taxpayer before the tax return is filed showing:

• Dollar amount of money contributed.
• Whether or not the organization provided any goods or services in exchange for all or a part of the donation.
• Description and estimation of value of any goods or services that the organization provided.
• Statement that the organization provides intangible religious benefits, if applicable.