Tsunami donations can be claimed on taxes thru 1/31/05

[crazytimes]

If you still need an incentive to give, Congress is allowing cash donations to IRS recognized charities to count as charitable deductions on your 2004 tax return.

Money for tsunami victims counts on 2004 taxes

Congress has passed a law that will let you donate money for tsunami victims through Jan. 31 and still get a break on your 2004 taxes.

The donations must be made in cash. The extended deadline doesn't apply to donations for other causes, such as gifts to your alma mater, a check to your church or a bag of winter clothes for a local shelter.

Your total tax-deductible charitable donations, including cash and noncash items, are limited to 50 percent of your adjusted gross income. Deductions are valid only for gifts to a recognized charity, meaning it has IRS approval to register as a tax-exempt organization.

Before you donate, check to see if you're dealing with a reputable agency. Do that at www.charitynavigator.com.

The Web site is run by the nonprofit organization Charity Navigator, which evaluates and ranks charitable agencies. The top-ranked charities for tsunami aid are listed.

And don't forget to get a receipt for tax purposes.

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