Each year we receive a number of generous donations from members who would like to claim the gift as a deduction on their income tax receipts. We offer a few tax tips in the following Questions & Answers.
Q: Can I deduct my membership or donation to EBBC?
A: Certainly, EBBC is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Q: What records do I need to submit?
A: According to IRS Publication 1771, Charitable Contributions Substantiation and Disclosure Requirements, donors must keep either a bank record (such as a cancelled check or a credit card statement) or a written communication from the charity.
Q: Can I deduct the $20 cash I gave EBBC at an event?
A: Nope, you need a record. Larger donations should always be by check, credit card, or else request a receipt when you hand us $$$ in a fat envelope.
Q: What written communication does EBBC provide?
A: All credit-card donors receive an email reply from the EBBC treasurer. We are obligated by the IRS to acknowledge contributions over $250. In practice, we provide written gratitude for all donations over $100.
Q: Can I send you a check after the first of the year dated 12/31/07 and claim it as a deduction in 2008?
A: No. The check must clear by 12/31/07.
Q: What should I do to make an end-of-year donation?
A: Although we will check the mail regularly and make deposits during the end of December, the most reliable solution is to visit DONATE and use a credit card.
Q: I see on your site that IRA distributions can be contributed to EBBC without being taxed as income. How does this work?
A: The distribution must be made directly to EBBC. Because this “loophole” ends on 12/31/07 you must contact your trustee for the forms immediately and call our treasurer.
Remember, contributing to EBBC is the best investment you can make toward either protecting or improving your East Bay bicycle habitat in 2008!