Can someone explain tax write offs?

My DH just donated a bunch of computers and office cubicles and desks to my agency. They told me they are sending a TY so we could use it as a tax write off. I donate stuff all the time and never get receipts b/c DH says it's not worth it, and he is saying he probably won't use it. I don't get it, why not. I know teachers who write off pens and pencils

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Message edited 8/7/2011 11:50:56 PM.

Re: Can someone explain tax write offs?

It's probably not worth it b/c you probably don't donate more than the standard deduction. If you don't have any need to itemize, then it's not worth keeping track... b/c you'll get the standard deduction anyway.

If however, you donate a substantial amount of money / things to charity AND itemize, then it's worth keeping track. You only need the receipt in the event you are audited...

Re: Can someone explain tax write offs?

okay thanks for trying girls but I have no clue when it comes to taxes. DH deals with the accountant and I sign off and ask "how much are we getting back"?

Re: Can someone explain tax write offs?

i'm an independent contractor so i write off everything! gas, miles, haircuts, manicures, dry cleaning, advertising, computers, paper, ink, etc. i have to get receipts for everything and i keep a log for the miles that i put on my car for work purposes.

i make donations to my Church and when i give away clothes i try to get a receipt. but for donations and stuff i kind of just itemize it on my taxes. i feel bad asking for a receipt cause then they know i'm not doing it out of the goodness of my heart but to get a tax deduction.