WHAT IS A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION?

Money or property that you donate to “qualified” charitable organizations can be included in your itemized deductions as a charitable contribution. But what is a “qualified” charity? The IRS provides an on-line search for qualified organizations.

A qualified charitable organization will fall into one of the following categories:

  • Churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, and other religious organizations.
  • Federal, state, and local governments, if your contribution is solely for public purposes. This generally includes local government, public schools, Indian tribal government, and governments of U.S. Possessions.
  • Nonprofit schools and hospitals.
  • Nonprofit volunteer fire companies, public parks and recreation facilities, and civil defense organizations.
  • Organizations organized and operated for charitable purposes, such as the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Goodwill Industries, United Way, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, March of Dimes, etc.
  • Certain organizations that foster national or international amateur sports competition.
  • War veterans’ organizations, including posts, auxiliaries, trusts, or foundations organized in the United States or any of its possessions.
  • Domestic fraternal societies, orders, and associations operating under the lodge system.
  • Certain Canadian and Mexican charities allowed by treaty – however, generally to deduct your contribution you must have income from sources within the country.

If you have questions regarding a specific charity or charitable contribution, please feel free to inquire with this office.

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