Charitable contributions or donations can help taxpayers to lower their taxable income via a tax deduction. To claim a tax-deductible donation, you must itemize on your taxes. The amount of charitable donations you can deduct may range from 20% to 60% of your AGI.
For noncash donations under $250 in value, you'll need a receipt unless the items were dropped off at an unstaffed location such as a clothing bin. Noncash donations from $250 to $500 in value require a receipt that includes the charity's name, address, date, donation location, and description of items donated.
However, you should be able to provide a bank record (bank statement, credit card statement, canceled check or a payroll deduction record) to claim the tax deduction. Written records, like check registers or personal notations, from the donor aren't enough proof. The records should show the: Organization's name.
Technically, if you do not have these records, the IRS can disallow your deduction. Practically, IRS auditors may allow some reconstruction of these expenses if it seems reasonable.
For noncash donations under $250 in value, you'll need a receipt unless the items were dropped off at an unstaffed location such as a clothing bin. Noncash donations from $250 to $500 in value require a receipt that includes the charity's name, address, date, donation location, and description of items donated.
There are several details that the IRS requires you to include: The name of your donor. The full legal name of your organization. A declaration of your organization's tax-exempt status. Your organization's employer identification number. The date the gift was received. A description of the gift and the amount received.
Legal requirements: The IRS requires donation receipts in certain situations. Failure to send a receipt can result in a penalty of $10 per contribution, up to $5,000 for each specific campaign.