Expect to Itemize Your Boat Donation for the IRS

Donate Car For Charity Tip: When you make a boat donation -- or any vehicle donation -- there is some extra work involved if you want the tax write-off.
Most Americans do not itemize deductions when filing their income taxes, but if you make a boat donation and want the tax deduction, you will have to do the paperwork.
- You must itemize your boat donation on Schedule A of IRS Form 1040.
- If the boat donation is valued at more than $500, you also will need IRS Form 8283 for "Noncash Charitable Contributions."
- Fill out this form and attach it to your tax return.

Don't be intimidated by the paperwork. Help is at hand. Often the charities provide easy-to-follow directions on accessing the necessary forms. It's always a good idea to consult with an accountant or seek help from the IRS, which publishes free taxpayer guides.
Its Web site is www.irs.gov.