17 Dec Better Late Than Never! Goodwill Needs End-Of-Year Donations.

They are six days that make a difference in thousands of lives. Each year from Dec. 26-31, the number of donations at Goodwill Donation Express Centers skyrockets. In 2013, donations of clothing and household goods during that period rose by 80 percent compared to other days of the year.

Donations fund Goodwill’s mission of providing employment and training opportunities for people with disabilities and others who have trouble finding and keeping jobs. The end-of-year donation rush is prompted in part by people cleaning out their closets, attics and garages to make room for holiday gifts. But many donors also are seeking last-minute tax deductions.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when donating to Goodwill:

• Donors wishing to claim a tax deduction should request a receipt from the attendant when dropping off their donations. The IRS allows a deduction for each item, but it is up to the donor to estimate each item’s value.
• Prepare an inventory of your items before going to Goodwill.
• Please remove hangers from clothing.
• If you have a single donation worth more than $500, you will need to complete IRS Form 8283. You will also need a qualified written appraisal.
• Finally, a good rule to follow in deciding what to donate is the One-Year-Rule. If you have not worn it, used it or played with it in one year, it probably time to donate it.

There are about 80 Donations Express Centers located throughout the 48-county territory, and most are open seven days a week. Locations and hours can be found online at  www.giveit2goodwill.org, under the “Donate” tab.

Your donation at the end of 2014 will mean a happier new year for someone in need of a job.