How to Claim a Church Deduction for Federal Taxes

Any donations you make to your church during the year qualify for a tax credit, if you have the documentation to prove it. Deductions include the donation of material goods, time and money. When making a donation to the church, make sure to ask for a receipt, or make the donation using a personal check or credit card. Maintain accurate records throughout the year so your deductions will be considered legitimate when tax time arrives.

Things You'll Need

• Documentation of donated items, money or time

Instructions

1. Maintain accurate church deduction records throughout the year. Acceptable documentation includes: canceled checks, bank statements that include the church's name or nonprofit status ID number, credit card statement or receipts from the church. If tithing to your church on a regular basis, write a check or ask for a receipt each week.

2. Obtain a receipt for all items you donate to the church. Receipts should include the date you donated the item, a brief description of the item and the name of the church. Research the item to determine its fair market value at the time it was donated. For example, if donating a car, look up the car's Blue Book value. This is the amount you can claim when filing your federal tax return.

3. Record all mileage if using your car for official church business. For instance, if you are a Sunday school teacher, choir master, or you help in the church office as a volunteer, you can claim mileage as a tax deduction. You may need to show proof in the form of a pay stub, W-2, or letter from the church stating that you volunteer on a regular basis.

4. Make copies of all receipts and other documentation. Include in your tax return if required.

5. Save original documentation for at least 5 years.

Tips & Warnings

• If unsure about church deductions, contact an accountant who will be able to identify which deductions you qualify for.

• A mileage deduction may not be taken if driving to church services, participating in church activities, or if driving fellow churchgoers to and from services although volunteer drivers recruited by the church may claim mileage if driving their own vehicle.

Resources

• IRS website