Should I explain? Donated in excess of $12,000 to charities(downsizing) Have photos/ full inventory. Do I need to attach an explanation? If so, what form and how?

[Cindy0H · Accepted solution]

No, you will not need an explanation. However, you will need receipts if the IRS decides to question your donations. Your photos and inventory would help if the IRS asks. Here are the guidelines:

For noncash donations under $250 in value, you'll need a receipt unless the items were dropped off at an unmanned location such as a clothing bin.

Noncash donations from $250 to $500 in value require a receipt that includes the charity's name, address, date, donation location and description of items donated.

Noncash donations over $500 in value also require a record of how and when the items were acquired and their adjusted basis, and if the donation exceeds $5,000 in value, it'll need a written appraisal from a qualified appraiser.