Things You'll Need:
- Camera
-
Step 1
Make a list of every piece of clothing you're donating. Start with a basic description of each item, perhaps including its size, brand name and what type of clothing it is. Note when you bought it and how much you paid, estimating if necessary. You should also include the condition of the item. In order to legally claim it as a tax deduction, it must be in "good" condition or better.
-
Step 2
Take pictures of any items that have a high value, such as a designer purse or an expensive suit. Put timestamps on the photos if possible. In case you are audited, this is simply additional proof that you actually owned and donated the items.
-
Step 3
Estimate the value of each individual item. For tax purposes, this figure is based on a reasonable price that someone would pay for the item in its current, used state. If you're donating the clothing to a thrift store or resale shop, you should use the amount of money that they will charge for it. Such shops usually have standard prices, such as $3 for shirts and $4 for pants, only marking up exceptional items.
-
Step 4
Donate the clothing to a non-profit organization, and get a receipt. The receipt is very important, because you will have trouble later if you claim a tax deduction, get audited, and can't provide a receipt. Penalties could include paying additional taxes, as well as fines.
-
Step 5
Write the total value of your clothing donation on the receipt. Keep it in a safe place, such as a folder in a file cabinet, with the list of items and any photos you took.
