Tax Benefit of Haiti Contributions

Millions of people have been affected by the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Thousands have lost their lives. Displaced residents are forced to live in makeshift tent cities and scores of children have been left orphaned. Struck by the tragedy, Americans have contributed generously to the financial needs of our Caribbean neighbor. If you are donating to charities providing earthquake relief in Haiti, you may be able to claim those donations on your 2009 tax return thanks to a new law.

Facts about claiming donations to Haiti:

Contributions must be specifically for the relief of victims in areas affected by the quake
Donations must be made after January 11, 2010 and before March 1, 2010
Contributions must be made to qualified charities
Only cash contributions via text message, check, credit or debit card are eligible
You must have a record of any deductible donation you make:
- Text Message requires a phone bill showing the name of charitable organization
- Check, credit or debit card requires a cancelled check or receipt from the charity
Receipts should show the name of the charity, the date, and amount contributed
You are only eligible to deduct if you itemize
Contributions to foreign organizations are generally not deductible