Disaster Relief - What You Need To Know

In the aftermath of the recent earthquake that shook the east coast of the United States, the tornados of this summer and now the impending hurricane season, we are reminded that we are subject to the mercy of natural forces causing injury to individuals and property.

Nonprofit organizations interested in aiding victims must be aware of the tax rules that guide their humanitarian efforts. One good source is Publication 3833 "Disaster Relief: Providing Assistance Through Charitable Organizations," published by the IRS. This publication provides comprehensive information on the rules that apply to the deductibility of contributions for these efforts. Also, see "Charitable Giving and Disaster Relief Efforts in Response to the Haitian and Chilean Earthquakes," by Milton Cerny and Adam M. Damerow that discusses Publication 3833 and international relief efforts.