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Topic 506 – Charitable Contributions
Charitable contributions are deductible only if you itemize deductions on Form 1040, Schedule A.
To be deductible, charitable contributions must be made to qualified organizations. Payments to individuals are never deductible. See Publication 526, Charitable Contributions. Continue here for IRS rules
Publication 526
Contributions You Can Deduct
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. Continue here for IRS rules
Property Contributions
If you contribute property to a qualified organization, the amount of your charitable contribution is generally the fair market value of the property at the time of the contribution. However, if the property has increased in value, you may have to make some adjustments to the amount of your deduction. See Giving Property That Has Increased in Value, later. Continue here for IRS rules
If you contribute property to a qualified organization, the amount of your charitable contribution is generally the fair market value of the property at the time of the contribution. However, if the property has increased in value, you may have to make some adjustments to the amount of your deduction. See Giving Property That Has Increased in Value, later. Continue here for IRS rules
Donation Value
Because each piece of real estate is unique and its valuation is complicated, a detailed appraisal by a professional appraiser is necessary. Continue here for IRS rules
Because each piece of real estate is unique and its valuation is complicated, a detailed appraisal by a professional appraiser is necessary. Continue here for IRS rules
Fair Market Value
Fair market value (FMV) is the price that property would sell for on the open market. It is the price that would be agreed on between a willing buyer and a willing seller, with neither being required to act, and both having reasonable knowledge of the relevant facts. If you put a restriction on the use of property you donate, the FMV must reflect that restriction. Continue here for IRS rules
Appraisals
Appraisals are not necessary for items of property for which you claim a deduction of $5,000 or less. (There is one exception, described next, for certain clothing and household items.) However, you generally will need an appraisal for donated property for which you claim a deduction of more than $5,000. Continue here for IRS rules