I'll deduct out-of-pocket veterinary & food expenses incurred while fostering a dog. Do I list the 501(c)3 as the charity? Which category do I use, Items or Money?

macias3dogs · ‎April 13, 2025

Vanessa A

If you are fostering a dog, you can deduct these expenses as money if you are buying the food for just the foster dog and paying the vet bills as long as these expenses are not reimbursed.

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macias3dogs

Thanks, Vanessa. If I list my unreimbursed expenses (veterinary care, training, food, etc.) as cash donations on my taxes, and the 501(c)3 for which I'm fostering doesn't declare that amount as a contribution on its taxes, is that an issue for the rescue group?

Vanessa A

If the organization is a 501c3, they are supposed to report the value of all donations on their 990.

Also, if your donations total more than $500, you would need to get form 8283 from the organization.

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I'll deduct out-of-pocket veterinary & food expenses incurred while fostering a dog. Do I list the 501(c)3 as the charity? Which category do I use, Items or Money?