I specialize in tax preparation, planning, and representing taxpayers before the IRS and state tax entities. I am an Enrolled Agent and Certified Tax Representation Consultant.
Does donating to Goodwill, or Salvation Army or other such charitable organizations guarantee an audit? No, BUT there is an increased chance because of the manner many attempt to take a deduction on their tax return.
These types of deductions are broadly known as non-cash charitables . They range from clothing, household goods, and toys all the way up to vehicles, art, shares of stock and really just about anything of value. These items have decreased considerably since the passing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, since it takes a considerable amount to surpass the standard deduction, and make itemizing deductions worthwhile. However, it could come back in a big way in 2026 when the TCJA expires, unless Congress intervenes.
The issue boils down to the "two v's": vagueness and values.
You donate three two-ply garbage bags full of clothing, games, and household goods. You get a slip from the Goodwill attendant that is blank other than the date and a signature of receipt, or maybe you took the time to write "three bags of clothes, toys, and miscellaneous." You attempt to take a $500 or more deduction because you only buy good stuff at Macy's or Nordstroms.
What was in the bag, men's suits, women's blouses, kid's clothing, bedding, books? All of these things have a thrift store value, and it doesn't matter if you bought them at the Budget Barn, Bon Ton, or Neiman Marcus. There are online valuators to guide people with valuing their donated goods.
How many of various items were? One, two, ten, a hundred?
For non-cash charitable goods of over $500 another form is required to be added to the Schedule A, that would be a Form 8283.
As you can see, there is a lot more involved to deducting non-cash charitable goods besides simply having a giving heart.
Christian Halas
Halas Consulting
412-685-4285
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