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.
-
Donating Complex Assets Doesn't Have to Be ComplicatedIf you're looking to donate less-conventional assets but don't know where to start, this charity executive has answers, such as considering a donor-advised fund (DAF) for its tax benefits and ease of use.
-
Travel trends you can expect this summerThe Kiplinger Letter Domestic trips will trump foreign travel amid economic uncertainties, though some costs are down.
-
Missouri Leads Capital Gains Tax Repeal: Will Your State Follow?State Tax As one state becomes a test case, policymakers and taxpayers across the U.S. will be watching closely to see what happens next.
-
Here's How the Child Tax Credit Could Increase Under TrumpTax Credits House Republicans released details on President Trump’s ‘one big, beautiful bill,’ including an increased child tax credit.
-
New Overtime Tax Deduction Proposed for Millions Working Extra HoursTax Law Some lawmakers and President Trump want to offer overtime tax relief. But will a tax deduction or an exemption help you most?
-
Big Tax Deduction Increase Proposed for Those Over Age 65Tax Deductions A new bipartisan bill and a tax plan from the House GOP could mean bigger retirement tax savings to offset taxes on Social Security and high prices.
-
New HSA Contribution Limits Are Set for 2026: What to Know NowHealth Savings The IRS says Health Savings Account contribution limits will increase again next year due to inflation.
-
Retirees: Don’t Miss These Valuable State Tax Breaks in 2025Retirement Planning Selecting the right state for retirement can significantly impact your financial well-being.
-
Trump’s Tax Cut Risks Your SNAP, Medicaid BenefitsTax Cuts The GOP budget blueprint could slash lifesaving programs for millions of U.S. households.
-
Missed Tax Day? Nearly One Million Taxpayers Still Can File and Claim Valuable Tax RefundsTax Refunds As many as one million taxpayers could be missing out on a significant tax refund.
