Charitable

Remember cash contributions must be substantiated. Use check or credit card to create a record. Ask your church for a year end record showing all donations. If you do give cash "ASK FOR A RECEIPT".

Clothing and households goods. Items donated must be in "good" condition or better to be deductible. Unfortunately the definition of "good" condition has not yet been determined. Exception: Condition is not related to donations of single items appraised at more than $500. Suggestion: take pictures of your donated items and list them individually. Attach the list and pictures to the receipt from the charity.

Cash donations. Cash contributions, including those by check or credit card, of any amount must be substantiated by a canceled check, bank record, or receipt from the donee organization showing the name of the organization, the date of contribution, and the amount.

Donate your IRA. If you are over 70 1/2 and have to make a minimum distribution from your IRA consider donating some or all of the distribution, depending on your needs. IRA distributions given directly to a qualified charity are tax free and will not be counted as income on your return. However, beware, you cannot take the tax deduction for the contribution.

Automobiles - HOT HOT HOT topic. My recommendation is sell your vehicle and donate the cash if you want to give to charity. Otherwise there are strict rules on the donation of a vehicle. Must have a receipt - no exceptions.