Substantiating Charitable Deductions

Taxpayers who claim income tax deductions for charitable contributions must request and obtain the written acknowledgement from the charity that the contribution was made. It is due by April 17, 2012, the time the income tax return is filed. Failure to have the required substantiation from the charity can void the tax deduction. Below is a sample letter.

　

CHARITY NAME

____[Date]_______

　

[Name of Donor]

[address]

 

Dear ____________:

Thank you very much for donating $_________ to Charity during 2011. This letter acknowledges your generous donation. No goods or services were received by you in consideration of this gift. Therefore, the full amount is deductible to the extent allowed by the Internal Revenue Service regulations.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

 

___________________________________

_____________________, [Title]

Charity