If you choose to itemize your taxes, charitable contributions can reduce your tax bill. Generally you would choose to itemize when the combined total of your anticipated deductions (like charitable gifts) add up to more than the standard deduction. For 2019 taxes the standard deductions are:
- $12,200 for single individuals
- $12,200 for married, filing separately
- $24,400 for married filing jointly
- $18,350 for head of household
If you do choose to itemize, limits on federal income tax charitable deductions are quite high, but they do exist. Keep this in mind as you make any year-end donations. The specific limitations are complicated, and there are numerous exceptions. The limits are based on your AGI (adjusted gross income). AGI is an individual’s total gross income minus specific deductions.
A quick rule-of-thumb for different types of donated assets to public charities:
- Appreciated capital gains assets (such as stock) up to 20% of AGI
- Non-cash assets up to 30% of AGI
- Cash contributions, up to 60% of AGI
- You can deduct transportation costs and other expenses related to volunteering
Note that these rates are for public tax-exempt organization and private operating foundations. Contributions to certain private foundations, veterans organizations, fraternal societies, and cemetery organizations are limited to 30% adjusted gross income. (Check out these IRS status codes and deductible limits if you’re unsure of an organization’s limit.)
As I mentioned, most people won’t exceed these limits indicated above, but it can happen. For instance, if Jane Donor is a retiree living off of savings and donates more than her investments yield over the year, her limit could be exceeded. The good news is that in this case the IRS allows you carry over excess contributions for up to five following tax years.
Don’t forget to take these steps if you plan to itemize your charitable deductions:
- Make sure the nonprofit organization is a 501(c)(3) public charity or private foundation
- Keep a record of the contribution (usually the tax receipt from the charity)
- Depending on the donation amount/type, you may need to obtain a qualified appraisal to substantiate the claimed value of the deduction
- Subtract the value of any benefits you received for your charitable contribution before you deduct it
I’m happy to advise on your situation and help you maximize your charitable giving for this tax year. I can be reached by phone at 515-371-6077 and by email at gordon@gordonfischerlawfirm.com.
