How to Donate Furniture & Clothes for a Tax Write Off
- 1). Inspect your items. The IRS requires the items to be in "good" or "better" condition. The IRS does not define what constitutes good or better condition. But as an illustration, you cannot take a deduction for an item that is essentially worthless such as a stained T-shirt with holes in the armpit. The furniture you donate should be usable, and free from glaring dents or blemishes.
- 2). Inventory each item. Count each shirt, pair of pants, TV set and bookcase you intend to donate. Keep this list with your other tax documents, such as your W-2s or 1099s.
- 3). Choose a charity. The organization must be a qualified organization. Certain charities, such as Goodwill or The Salvation Army, qualify. You may also contact the IRS or use its "Search for Charities" webpage to find a qualified organization.
- 4). Drop the items off at the charity of your choice. Ask for a receipt. Keep the receipt with your tax records.
- 5). Calculate the amount of your donation. The IRS allows you to deduct the fair market value of your items. Goodwill, and other charities, may provide you with a suggested price chart. Use the chart as necessary.
For example, if you donate 10 pairs of men's pants, and Goodwill suggests the fair market value for pants is between $2 and $10, you could deduct between $20 and $100, depending on the condition of the pants. - 6). Report the amount of your donation on Schedule A to IRS Form 1040. You must itemize your deductions to use the charitable deduction. If the amount donated is more than $500, complete and attach IRS Form 8283.
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