In this season of giving, remember the organizations that serve those in need. Charitable contributions during this time of year, may help the less fortunate, enjoy the holiday season along with the rest of us; and that is a good thing. If those contributions are made prior to year-end, they will be deductible on your upcoming income tax return; and that makes a good thing even better. Be aware that a tax deduction is not the same as a tax "reduction" ... but that is a subject for another time. Just remember, in order for contributions to be tax deductible they have to be given to charitable organizations, recognized as such, by the Internal Revenue Service.

While money is the most common form of contribution, you might also consider giving non-monetary items that you own, but have no further use for... such as clothing, housewares, appliances, furniture, and vehicles. These things should be in good condition, and if necessary they should be cleaned. Avoid donating items that belong in the trash. If you have a lot of items to be donated, and is in need of transportation, consider charitable organizations with pick-up services.

For tax purposes, be sure to get a written receipt/acknowledgement for your contribution. In most cases, charitable organizations, will provide a written receipt immediately; or a letter of acknowledgement soon after a contribution is made. Some organizations, issue a single acknowledgement to each contributor, after the close of the calendar year; to accumulate all contributions made in that year.

If you pay by check, write "charitable contribution" in the memo section, and attach the cancelled check to the acknowledgment that you receive from the organization. If you use cash or any other method of payment that lacks a paper-trail, then you should try to get a receipt immediately; to substantiate your tax deduction.

When you make a non-monetary contribution, you will generally receive an acknowledgment, without a dollar value; and in some cases, without any detail other than the organization's name, your name, and the date. In these cases, it is advisable to create a list of items being contributed along with an estimated value for each item. This list should be prepared in advance, and then attached to the contribution receipt.

For the most part, helping someone in need, is its own reward... the fact that you get a tax break for doing so, is a nice bonus.