By Goodwill Industries
MIDDLE TENNESSEE – As 2014 winds down, Goodwill’s donations team is geared up and ready to handle its busiest time of year. During the final six days of the year, donation attendants will assist nearly twice as many donors as usual.
Why the rush? Many people are seeking a last-minute tax receipt, because all items donated before Jan. 1 can be deducted on 2014 tax returns. Donors are also helping their communities. Donations fund Goodwill’s mission of providing employment and training opportunities for people with disabilities and others who have trouble finding and keeping jobs.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when donating to Goodwill:
● When organizing their homes, people should consider the “One-Year Rule”: If you haven’t worn it, used it or played with it in one year, it is probably time to donate it.
● Donors wishing to claim a tax deduction should request a receipt from the attendant when dropping off their donations. The IRS allows a deduction for each item, but it is up to the donor to estimate each item’s value.
● Donors should prepare an inventory of items before going to Goodwill.
● Donors should remove hangers from clothing.
● Those making a single donation worth more than $500 need to complete IRS Form 8283. They also need a qualified written appraisal.
● Donors are cautioned to be certain they are donating to a legitimate charity. Resources for research include the Tennessee Secretary of State’s Office and charity-rating agencies such as GuideStar. Be cautious of donation bins that do not clearly state the organization’s mission and contact information.
About 80 Donations Express Centers are located throughout the 48-county territory, and most are open seven days a week. Locations and hours can be found online at www.giveit2goodwill.org, under the “Donate” tab.