Real estate dealers are entitled to the much the same deductions as any other business owner. They can deduct all the expenses of owning the vacant land they buy and sell, including interest, taxes, and other carrying costs. If you are a sole proprietor, these are deducted on IRS Schedule C.
If you give property to a qualified organization, you can generally deduct the fair market value (FMV) of the property at the time of the contribution.
Determining the value of donated property de- pends upon many factors. You should consider all the facts and circumstances connected with the property, including any recent transactions, in determining value. Value may also be based on desirability, use, condition, scarcity, and mar- ket demand for that property.
Donated Assets—Land, buildings, equipment and library holdings received as a gift will be capitalized at the fair market or appraised value at the time of the gift.
By using the proper tax planning strategies, charitable contributions can reduce three kinds of federal taxes: income, capital gains and estate taxes.
In fact, you have an unlimited charitable deduction if your estate plan makes gifts to charities. Charitable tax strategies for estate planning purposes can be among the most complex, and it typically makes sense to consult a professional.
To claim charitable donations, you'll need to itemize your deductions on your tax return instead of taking the standard deduction. List your total itemized deductions, including charitable contributions. If that amount exceeds the standard deduction amount for your filing status, you should itemize.
Proof can be provided in the form of an official receipt or invoice from the receiving qualified charitable organization, but it can also be provided via credit card statements or other financial records detailing the donation.