In-Kind Donations: Understanding Their Impact on Taxes and How to Account for Them

In-kind donations are a valuable way for individuals and businesses to contribute to charitable organizations. These non-cash contributions can take many forms, from donated goods and services to real estate and intellectual property. While in-kind donations offer a meaningful way to support nonprofit causes, they also come with specific tax implications and accounting requirements. This comprehensive guide will explore what in-kind donations are, how they are accounted for, and the tax rules governing these contributions.

What is the Meaning of an In-Kind Donation?

An in-kind donation refers to a non-cash contribution of goods, services, or property to a charitable organization. Unlike monetary donations, which involve the transfer of cash or funds, in-kind donations consist of tangible items or professional services that benefit the recipient organization. Common examples include:

• Goods: Clothing, food, equipment, furniture, or other tangible items.
• Services: Professional services like legal advice, accounting, graphic design, or consulting provided free of charge.
• Property: Real estate, vehicles, stocks, or intellectual property.
• Use of Facilities: Donating the use of a building or equipment for an event.

In-kind donations are especially important for nonprofits, as they can significantly reduce operational costs and provide essential resources that might otherwise be unaffordable.

What Counts as an In-Kind Donation?

An in-kind donation includes any non-cash gift provided to a charitable organization. Here’s a breakdown of what typically counts as an in-kind donation:

• Tangible Goods: Physical items such as books, computers, food, clothing, or furniture.
• Real Estate: Land, buildings, or property donated to a nonprofit.
• Services: Professional services offered pro bono, such as legal work, medical care, or graphic design.
• Intellectual Property: Donations of patents, copyrights, trademarks, or royalties.
• Investment Assets: Stocks, bonds, or mutual funds donated to a charitable organization.

Each type of in-kind donation has specific rules regarding how it should be valued and documented.

Can In-Kind Donations Be Tax-Deductible?

Yes, in-kind donations can be tax-deductible, but the rules and limits depend on the type of donation and the donor’s tax situation. Here’s what you need to know:

• Deductible Value: Generally, the deductible value of an in-kind donation is the fair market value (FMV) of the donated item or service at the time of the donation. Fair market value is the price that property would sell for on the open market.
• Appraisals: For donations of property worth more than $5,000, the IRS requires a qualified appraisal to determine the FMV. This appraisal must be attached to your tax return when you claim the deduction.
• Limits on Deductions: The IRS places limits on the amount you can deduct for in-kind donations. Typically, you can deduct up to 50% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for donations to public charities, although this limit can be lower (20% or 30%) depending on the type of property donated and the recipient organization.
• Services: While the value of donated services is not tax-deductible, any out-of-pocket expenses incurred while providing the service (such as materials or travel expenses) can be deducted.

How Are Donations Accounted For?

For both donors and recipient organizations, properly accounting for in-kind donations is essential to ensure compliance with IRS rules and to accurately reflect the value of the contributions.

For Donors:

1. Determine Fair Market Value: The first step in accounting for an in-kind donation is determining its fair market value. This might involve researching the price of similar items or obtaining a professional appraisal.
2. Keep Detailed Records: Donors should maintain detailed records of their in-kind contributions, including a description of the donated item, its fair market value, and any appraisal documents. If the donation exceeds $500, you must file IRS Form 8283 with your tax return.
3. Claiming the Deduction: When filing your tax return, you’ll claim the deduction on Schedule A if you itemize deductions. Attach Form 8283 if your in-kind donations exceed $500, and include any required appraisals for donations over $5,000.

For Recipients:

1. Record the Donation: Nonprofits receiving in-kind donations must record them at their fair market value on their financial statements. This is typically done as both a revenue and an expense entry, reflecting the value received and how it was used.
2. Acknowledge the Donation: The recipient organization should provide the donor with a written acknowledgment of the donation, which includes a description of the donated item or service but not its value. The acknowledgment should also state whether any goods or services were provided in return.
3. Compliance with IRS Requirements: Nonprofits should ensure that all in-kind donations are documented properly, especially for audit purposes. This includes retaining records of the donation’s fair market value, any appraisals, and the acknowledgment provided to the donor.

Are In-Kind Gifts Taxable?

For donors, in-kind gifts are generally not taxable, but they can result in a tax deduction if the proper steps are followed. For recipients, in-kind donations are not considered taxable income, but they must be recorded on the organization’s financial statements.

• For Donors: The donated property is not subject to capital gains tax if it is a long-term capital gain property (held for more than one year), and the donor can deduct the fair market value. However, if the property has appreciated in value, selling it first and then donating the proceeds may result in a taxable event.
• For Recipients: In-kind donations are treated as contributions and are not taxable. However, they must be recorded as revenue and expenses on the financial statements.

IRS Guidelines for In-Kind Donations

The IRS has established guidelines to ensure that both donors and recipients of in-kind donations follow proper procedures:

• Form 8283: If the total value of your in-kind donations exceeds $500 in a tax year, you must file IRS Form 8283 with your tax return. This form provides details about the donated items, including their fair market value.
• Qualified Appraisals: For in-kind donations of property worth more than $5,000, a qualified appraisal is required. The appraisal must be conducted by a professional appraiser and attached to your tax return.
• Record Keeping: Donors must keep detailed records of their in-kind donations, including receipts, acknowledgments from the charity, and any appraisals. For donations exceeding $250, a written acknowledgment from the recipient organization is required.
• Donated Services: The IRS does not allow deductions for the value of donated services, but out-of-pocket expenses related to providing the service (such as materials or travel) are deductible.

In-Kind Donations and Taxes: Examples

Let’s look at a few examples of how in-kind donations and taxes might work:

• Example 1: Donating a Car: Suppose you donate a car worth $8,000 to a charity. You would need a qualified appraisal to determine the car’s fair market value and file Form 8283 with your tax return. The charity would acknowledge your donation in writing, and you could deduct the $8,000 on your taxes if you itemize deductions.
• Example 2: Donating Stocks: You donate $10,000 worth of stock that you’ve held for more than one year to a nonprofit. Because the stock is a long-term capital gain property, you can deduct the full fair market value of $10,000 and avoid paying capital gains tax on the appreciation.
• Example 3: Pro Bono Services: You provide $5,000 worth of legal services to a charity. While you cannot deduct the value of the services, you can deduct any related out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel costs.

How Should Donations Be Recorded?

For donors and recipients, accurate recording of in-kind donations is essential:

• Donors: Record the fair market value of the donation and keep all relevant documentation, including receipts, appraisals, and written acknowledgments from the charity. If the value exceeds $500, file Form 8283 with your tax return.
• Recipients: Nonprofits should record the fair market value of in-kind donations as both revenue and an expense in their financial statements. This ensures that the donation is accounted for correctly and transparently.

Are Gifts In-Kind Taxable?

Gifts in-kind are generally not taxable for donors or recipients. For donors, in-kind donations can result in a tax deduction, provided they are documented and valued correctly. For recipients, in-kind donations are considered contributions and are not taxed as income but must be recorded for accounting purposes.

Example: Paying Church Tithes and Donating Appreciated Mutual Funds vs. Cash

Let’s look at a common situation where an individual with a W2 job wants to contribute 10% of their income as a tithe to their church. This donation can be made in cash or through in-kind donations, such as appreciated mutual funds, and the tax implications of each differ significantly.

• Cash Donations: If you donate 10% of your income directly in cash, you can deduct the full amount on your taxes if you itemize your deductions. For instance, if you earn $100,000 and donate $10,000 in cash, you can claim the full $10,000 as a charitable deduction, lowering your taxable income.
• Appreciated Mutual Funds: If you’ve held mutual funds or stocks for more than one year and they have appreciated in value, donating them instead of cash can provide even greater tax benefits. For example, let’s say you have $10,000 worth of mutual funds that you purchased for $5,000. By donating the mutual funds instead of selling them, you avoid paying capital gains tax on the $5,000 appreciation. Additionally, you can deduct the full fair market value of the mutual funds ($10,000) from your taxes, just as you would with a cash donation. This is a $750 savings on this $5,000 gain due to the 15% capital gains tax when compared to a traditional cash donation.

Steps to Take Advantage of This Strategy:

1. Verify the Charity’s Eligibility: Ensure your church or charitable organization is a qualified 501(c)(3) to receive tax-deductible donations.
2. Consult Your Financial Advisor: Speak with your advisor to identify the best appreciated assets to donate and ensure the donation aligns with your overall financial goals.
3. Transfer the Assets: Contact your financial institution to arrange the transfer of mutual funds or stocks directly to the charity. The charity must be equipped to accept in-kind donations.
4. Keep Records: Obtain a receipt or acknowledgment from the charity specifying the donation amount and whether any goods or services were received in return.

By donating appreciated mutual funds instead of cash, you maximize your tax deduction while avoiding capital gains taxes, making this a highly efficient way to fulfill your tithe or charitable giving obligations.

Conclusion: Maximizing the Benefits of Charitable Giving

Donations offer significant benefits for both donors and recipients, providing essential resources for nonprofits while offering potential tax deductions for donors. However, the rules governing these contributions are complex, and it’s crucial to follow IRS guidelines to ensure compliance and maximize the tax benefits.

Whether you’re donating goods, services, or property, understanding how to properly account for and deduct these contributions can make a big difference in your tax planning strategy. At Molen & Associates, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of charitable giving. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in making the most of your donations.