Is there any value in entering Goodwill donations if TT recommends using the Standard Deductions?

[Cris]

I have always used "It's Deductible" within TT, but this year it is not available.  I looked at the last 2 years to see the value of my donations (as determined by It's Deductible). The 2023 value was the largest (for discussion purposes let's say it was $1000) and in 2025 I donated less than I did in 2023 (less trips and less items).  So, I am confident that my 2025 donations would be less than the 2023 value.  So, I keyed in the $1000 into TT and TT determined that the Standard Deduction saves me the most.   Since I have always used It's Deductible in past years I have detailed Goodwill contributions included within TT.   So, is it even worth my time to enter these donations into TT for 2025? I thought about signing up for Deductible Duck, DeductAble or That's A Write-off to itemize and provide FMV for my 2025 Goodwill contributions but wondering if there are any good reasons to do so given that the Standard Deduction saves me the most.  What are your thoughts on this? 

[CatinaT1 · Accepted solution]

No. If you are not itemizing there is no need to keep track or enter the information. 

[Cris]

Thanks for your prompt reply, Catina.  BTW, my daughter's name is Catina.

[AmeliesUncle]

It depends on your State.

While there may not be a benefit for Federal taxes, some States may allow a deduction (either because they have a charity-specific deduction or the State's Standard Deduction is much lower than Federal, so you might Itemized on the State return).

[DeeDuckDave]

We added an article about whether charitable donations reduce state taxes and it does very much depend on state, but we covered all 50 states + DC in the article to give you an idea if it's worth it or not.