Itemized deductions

[Jim2]

I have about $100 in purchases that I use as a volunteer during literacy activities with preschool aged Karen immigrants. I'm not sure where under "Gifts to Charity" I would deduct these expenses.

[MargaretL]

Out-of-pocket volunteer expenses are entered as cash donations:

1. Federal Taxes

2. Deductions & Credits

3. Donations to Charity

4. Select Cash, enter the name of the charity and the amount. 

NOTE: 

* If you use up the materials you purchase, you can deduct them as cash. If you purchase equipment, you cannot deduct it unless you are donating it to the nonprofit.  For example, you buy a camera and use it to take pictures for a nonprofit website; you can deduct the cost of developing pictures but not the cost of the camera if you keep the camera for yourself.

* Charitable donations as part of itemized deductions and the amount you claim will not make a difference on your return unless you have other deductions; please read What are itemized deductions for details.