Taxpayers may be able to claim a charitable deduction for donating real property, or certain interests in real property that restrict how land or buildings can be used.
Form 8283 is filed by individuals, partnerships, and corporations. C corporations. C corporations, other than personal service corporations and closely held corporations, must file Form 8283 only if the amount claimed as a deduction is more than $5,000 per item or group of similar items.
The accepted way to record in-kind donations is to set up a separate revenue account but the expense side of the transaction should be recorded in its functional expense account. For example, revenue would be recorded as Gifts In-Kind – Services, and the expense would be recorded as Professional Services.
If you give property to a qualified organization, you can generally deduct the fair market value (FMV) of the property at the time of the contribution.
About Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions. Internal Revenue Service.
Determining the value of donated property de- pends upon many factors. You should consider all the facts and circumstances connected with the property, including any recent transactions, in determining value. Value may also be based on desirability, use, condition, scarcity, and mar- ket demand for that property.
Individuals may deduct qualified contributions of up to 100 percent of their adjusted gross income. A corporation may deduct qualified contributions of up to 25 percent of its taxable income. Contributions that exceed that amount can carry over to the next tax year.
It involves drafting key legal paperwork, having your land appraised, finding an eligible land trust or nonprofit to enforce the easement, and consulting with a CPA to maximize your tax deduction. Fortunately, Giving Property specializes in working with donors to make the process as easy as possible.
Income tax strategies—Donations to 501(c)(3) public charities qualify for an itemized deduction from income. Because the tax rate is then applied to a reduced income, this can minimize your overall tax liability.