Understanding What Counts as a Charitable Donation
Many people donate throughout the year with the intention of claiming a tax deduction. You can deduct gifts made to qualified nonprofit organizations that appear in the IRS database. Gifts to individuals, political causes, or informal fundraisers do not qualify. Checking the organization’s status before donating helps avoid issues during tax preparation.
Tracking Cash Donations
What Counts as Cash
Cash donations include payments made by check, debit card, credit card, online payment, or physical cash.
What Records You Need
You must keep documentation showing the charity name, the donation date, and the donation amount. Bank statements, card statements, canceled checks, email confirmations, or letters from the charity all work.
Extra Requirement for Larger Gifts
For any single cash donation of two hundred and fifty dollars or more, you need a written acknowledgment from the charity. Many nonprofits provide this automatically, but ask for it if needed.
Tracking Non-Cash Donations
What Counts as Non-Cash
Non-cash donations include clothing, furniture, appliances, books, toys, tools, electronics, and similar goods.
Understanding Fair Market Value
The IRS expects you to use fair market value. A simple way to estimate this is to consider what a resale shop might charge for the same item.
Documentation Rules by Value
- Less than $250 - You need a receipt from the charity, a description of the items, and the date and location of the drop-off.
- $250 to $500 - You need everything listed above plus a written acknowledgment from the charity.
- $500 to $5,000 - You need everything listed above plus information about how you acquired the items and your original cost basis.
- More than $5,000 - You need all prior records plus a qualified appraisal.
Creating a Donation Tracking System
Simple Paper Method
Some people prefer a paper folder where they store receipts and notes throughout the year. This works as long as you review it regularly.
Digital Folder
Scanning receipts and saving photos of donated items gives you a clean, searchable record.
Using a Tracking Tool
Many donors prefer a dedicated tool that lets them log items, track values, upload receipts, and export summaries. Recording donations in real time prevents missing details later.
Staying Within IRS Rules
Deduction limits depend on your income and the type of donation. Many people forget to track smaller gifts, miles driven for charity, or the value of everyday household items. Better records lead to fewer mistakes and more accurate deductions. IRS Publication 526 explains these rules in detail.
A Simple Way to Stay Organized All Year
Tracking donations does not need to be complicated. A reliable system saves time and prevents missing deductions. That’s why many donors use
That’s A Write-Off. It gives you one place to record cash gifts, non-cash items, fair market values, receipts, and totals. Everything stays organized and ready for tax season without searching through scattered paperwork or emails.
