Tickets for special events are often not fully receiptable, because patrons receive advantages from attending. Check our Q & A for split receipting rules.
Charities are not allowed to issue charitable donation receipts for gifts of donated services or volunteer time. Check our Q & A post for details.
You can claim unused charitable donations on your personal taxes for up to 5 years. So, when you’re filing your 2011 taxes, you can claim previously unreported donations back to January 2007.
Make sure that your charitable donation receipting is up to date at your fiscal year-end, so that you’re prepared to report on donations for the year in your T3010 Charities Return.
Donating appreciated securities (stocks or mutual funds) is the most tax effective way for donors to support your charity. They pay no capital gains tax and they get the charitable tax credit.
Donations received by December 31 are eligible for a tax credit in that year. Make sure that your receipting is up to date at the calendar year-end so your donors can claim their credit.
Charities are not obliged to issue charitable donation receipts. Some charities use a minimum threshold, e.g. donations above $20 are receipted.
Purchasing new fundraising software for your charity? This consumer’s guide may help you with your selection.
Make “data mining” a habit. Each year, review your charity’s results from individuals, corporations and foundations. Significant year-over-year increases, large one-time gifts, and sustained giving over time could signal prospects to be developed.
Data mining is a process which can allow you to investigate your own database for supporters who could be “moved up the ladder.” Search for patterns such as monthly givers and individuals who are engaged in multiple ways (donors, event attendees, volunteers). These folks should be your fundraising priorities.