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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Craft a concise, direct donation message by clearly stating your cause, the impact of donations, and specific calls-to-action with emotional language. For example: "Your $25 gift provides a week of meals for a family in need. Text FEED to 55555 to More Meals today!"