Can I claim cash round-up donations at store check-outs?

[TL3]

At almost all stores (Costco, Goodwill, Sprouts etc) checkout, I have been asked to round up my payments or add donations to children's hospital or other charities. I must have paid over $200. Since I don't keep all the receipts, can I claim $200 as cash donation or not? Thank you!

[MaryK1 · Accepted solution]

The IRS requires you to keep track of your donations, so you really want to be careful that you have records for any donations you make.  If you cannot substantiate the donations, you should not risk the deduction.

[mesquitebean]

All cash contributions have to be documented, according to the IRS in this publication.
<a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p526">https://www.irs.gov/publications/p526</a>

"Cash Contributions

"Cash contributions include those paid by cash, check, electronic funds transfer, debit card, credit card, or payroll deduction.

"You can't deduct a cash contribution, regardless of the amount, unless you keep one of the following.

    A bank record that shows the name of the qualified organization, the date of the contribution, and the amount of the contribution. Bank records may include:

        A canceled check,
        A bank or credit union statement, or
        A credit card statement.
    A receipt (or a letter or other written communication) from the qualified organization showing the name of the organization, the date of the contribution, and the amount of the contribution.
      The payroll deduction records described next.