The IRS reminds taxpayers to research charities before making donations
The holiday season often prompts people to give money or property to charity. If you plan to give and want to claim a tax deduction, there are a few tips you should know before you give. As individuals and businesses are deciding where to make their donations, the IRS reminds taxpayers to research charities before making donations. Did you know the IRS has a tool that allows users to search for charities? Below we’ve highlighted four fast facts about the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool.
- Donors can use it to confirm an organization is tax exempt and eligible to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions.
- Users can find out if an organization had its tax-exempt status revoked. A common reason for revocation is when an organization does not file its Form 990-series return for three consecutive years.
- EO Select Check does not list certain organizations that may be eligible to receive tax-deductible donations, including churches, organizations in a group ruling, and governmental entities.
- Organizations are listed under the legal name or a “doing business as” name on file with the IRS. No separate listing of common or popular names is searchable.
For individuals and businesses making year-end gifts to charity, determining if your charitable contribution is deductible is also important. Especially considering the changes to the standard deductions and itemized deductions from last year’s tax reform legislation. Taxpayers who formerly itemized may now find it beneficial to take the standard deduction. The professionals in our office can answer any questions you may have regarding year-end gifts to charity. Call on us today!