Tax Breaks for Charitable Work
Here’s why it’s important to have a detailed log of your expenses while working with a charity.
Question: As a retiree, I’ve been volunteering more with nonprofits. Can I deduct expenses when traveling to meetings on behalf of the charities? - S.A., Marietta, Ga.
Answer: You can deduct unreimbursed travel expenses as a charitable donation if you file an itemized tax return and the trip is primarily for your work with the nonprofit. You can deduct airfare, lodging, meals and—if driving—parking, tolls and mileage at a rate of 14 cents per mile. Keep a mileage log with the date and reason for the trip. You should get a letter from the charity confirming your activity and stating that no goods or services were exchanged, says Morris Armstrong, an enrolled agent in Cheshire, Conn., who can represent taxpayers before the IRS.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
As the "Ask Kim" columnist for Kiplinger's Personal Finance, Lankford receives hundreds of personal finance questions from readers every month. She is the author of Rescue Your Financial Life (McGraw-Hill, 2003), The Insurance Maze: How You Can Save Money on Insurance -- and Still Get the Coverage You Need (Kaplan, 2006), Kiplinger's Ask Kim for Money Smart Solutions (Kaplan, 2007) and The Kiplinger/BBB Personal Finance Guide for Military Families. She is frequently featured as a financial expert on television and radio, including NBC's Today Show, CNN, CNBC and National Public Radio.
-
Three Big Ways That Life Insurance Can Be a Lifeline
Life insurance not only provides a safety net for loved ones and leaves behind a lasting legacy, but the cash value can also help during financial hardship.
By Steve Sugumele Published
-
Romance Scams That Target Older Adults Rising: What to Do
Here are some tips to help you avoid falling for a scam, especially when a scammer tries to prey on your affection.
By Patrick M. Simasko, J.D. Published
-
Six Tax Breaks That Get Better With Age
Tax Breaks Depending on your age, several tax credits, deductions, and amounts change — sometimes for the better.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
-
Biden Proposes New Homebuyer Tax Credits
Tax Credits President Biden is calling for new middle-class tax breaks including a mortgage tax credit.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
-
Will Florida Property Tax Be Eliminated?
Property Taxes A new proposal is raising questions about revenue generation in the Sunshine State.
By Kelley R. Taylor Published
-
States That Won't Tax Your EV
State Tax Most states impose additional fees on electric vehicles, but these states don’t penalize EV owners, and some also offer other tax incentives.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
-
Tax Season is Here: Big IRS Tax Changes to Know Before You File
Tax Filing Tax deductions, tax credit amounts, and some tax laws have changed for the 2024 tax filing season.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
-
Your Arizona Family Rebate is Taxable: What to Know
State Tax Thousands of Arizona families will need to report income from special child tax relief payments.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
-
Families and Businesses Would Get Big Tax Breaks in Bipartisan Tax Deal
Tax Changes A new bipartisan tax deal could change the child tax credit, R&D expensing, and the employee retention tax credit.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
-
Non-Refundable vs Refundable Tax Credits: What’s the Difference?
Tax Credits Refundable tax credits and non-refundable tax credits can be confusing. Here’s how they work and how each can help you when you file your tax return.
By Katelyn Washington Published