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Returning Member
posted Apr 14, 2018 2:07:39 PM

Charity deduction for purchase of camera

Purchased camera that is used primarily for taking sports photos for a school. What percentage of the camera can I deduct under charity, or is this the correct area to claim expense under?

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1 Best answer
Expert Alumni
Apr 14, 2018 2:23:59 PM

You can't deduct the camera as a donation since it belongs to you. If you donate the photographs to the school you could deduct your out-of-pocket costs (film, paper, development) as a charitable contribution. You can deduct mileage directly related to driving your car to give service to the charitable organization (@14¢ per mile). You cannot deduct the value of the time you spent taking the photographs. For more information, please see Is This Deductible? My Volunteer Work and IRS Pub 526: Charitable Contributions.

3 Replies
Expert Alumni
Apr 14, 2018 2:23:59 PM

You can't deduct the camera as a donation since it belongs to you. If you donate the photographs to the school you could deduct your out-of-pocket costs (film, paper, development) as a charitable contribution. You can deduct mileage directly related to driving your car to give service to the charitable organization (@14¢ per mile). You cannot deduct the value of the time you spent taking the photographs. For more information, please see Is This Deductible? My Volunteer Work and IRS Pub 526: Charitable Contributions.

Returning Member
Apr 14, 2018 2:37:33 PM

Thank you for your help Linda

Expert Alumni
Apr 14, 2018 3:05:25 PM

You're welcome.