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Returning Member
posted Jun 1, 2019 12:16:21 PM

Can a pastor deduct the price of items bought for individuals as charitable contributions since he is doing this as a representative of the church?

I am the pastor of a very small church. As pastor, I sometimes meet people who are in immediate need of help. Can I, as a representative of the church, deduct items bought for these individuals as contributions to the church since I am rarely reimbursed?

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1 Best answer
Expert Alumni
Jun 1, 2019 12:16:22 PM

No. Only contributions made directly to an exempt organization, such as your church, qualify as deductible charitable contributions. 

1 Replies
Expert Alumni
Jun 1, 2019 12:16:22 PM

No. Only contributions made directly to an exempt organization, such as your church, qualify as deductible charitable contributions.