Can i claim deduction for charitable donations made by my minor childen?

[Coleen3 · Accepted solution]

Contributions Your Dependent Makes

The IRS only allows you to deduct charitable contributions that you personally funded, whether the contribution was made in your name or in someone else's. If your child or dependent makes a donation to a charity, you are not allowed to claim it as a tax deduction. This is true even if your dependent does not claim the contribution on his own tax return because he opts for the standard deduction rather than itemizing or claims exemption.

Non-Cash Contributions Your Dependent Makes

If you donate non-cash items such as household goods or even a car, you may be able to claim these on your taxes if you originally financed the items. For instance, if you purchased children’s clothing and then donated them to charity, you can deduct these from your taxes. However, if your child purchases a car and then donates it to charity as the titled owner, you would not be able to deduct this. Keep in mind, too, that you will need a professional appraisal to claim any non-cash contributions of more than $500

[b1699]

Thanks Coleen!!  That was speedy!  I read at <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://money.stackexchange.com/questions/61949/can-i-deduct-childs-charitable-deduction-from-my-tax...> that I can claim the deduction if I make the donation on my child's behalf.  Is that right?  I have an official statement for each of the three children who donated.  But does that make the distinction that I cannot claim it since the receipt is in their name?  It's essentially pay I give them for work around the house  >>> "[Y]ou can deduct contributions you make in someone else’s name. So if you donated a certain amount of money to XYZ charity in your child’s name, for example, you would be able to deduct this amount on your taxes, as long as the deduction requirements are met. You will need to keep accurate records of the payment along with the receipt from the organization to prove you financed the donation."

[Coleen3]

Right. The donation YOU made. If it is in their name, it was still originating from you. I don't understand the part about paying them. You "paid" them but really donated the money?

[b1699]

Thanks for your help Coleen. I got it now.