Q: How did last year’s tax law change the deduction for charitable contributions, and how could it help me on my taxes?
A: Beginning in 2026, you may be able to deduct certain charitable contributions even if you take the standard deduction.
You don’t have to itemize to potentially get a tax benefit. Taxpayers who take the standard deduction can deduct up to $1,000 of qualifying charitable contributions, or up to $2,000 for married couples filing jointly. This is available in addition to the standard deduction.
The contribution generally must be made in cash to a qualified organization. For purposes of this deduction, qualifying contributions generally include monetary donations such as cash, checks and certain electronic payments to eligible charitable organizations. Donations to individuals do not qualify.
Keep records of the donations you make this year. For cash or other monetary contributions, keep a bank record or written communication from the charity showing its name and the date and amount of the contribution. For any single contribution of $250 or more, you generally need a written acknowledgment from the charitable organization that also addresses whether you got anything of value in return.
The bottom line: If you make charitable contributions this year, keep records of your qualifying cash donations so you don’t miss a deduction at tax time. If you itemize deductions instead, different rules apply to charitable contributions, which we’ll cover in a future tip.
Send questions about your taxes to Vincent Hicks, a CPA based in Cambridge who has more than 20 years of experience, at vincent@hickscpasolutions.com. You can call Hicks at (859) 553-0788.
