My Take: Most people (maybe?) have already filed their tax returns, so this information (bel0w) might seem a little late, but it is not.  I strongly believe that people do not realize that they have the ability to deduct up to half of your adjusted gross income (term defined below) through donations to charities (non-profits).  This is huge in that the Federal  government allows you to direct your otherwise taxed dollars to a cause of your choice.  If you really care about a cause and know of a non-profit that is doing work in that area, you should seriously think about giving to the organization.  It’s a win-win situation for you and them.  You can give and lesson your tax burden, while you support the cause you care about.

I’m linking to a web page that provides a very good overview of the current rules and limitations that concern tax deductions and charitable donations.  Once you are armed with this knowledge, then when you see a cause that you might want to support, you can make a more informed decision regarding your ability to contribute.  Many people see non-profits asking for a donation as a losing proposition…at best it is seen as a way to get someone to stop bothering you.  This isn’t true.  If you have an actual interest in the non-profit or don’t like to see so much of your taxes go to the Federal government, then maybe you’re at the doorstep of a great opportunity.

Note: Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is calculated as your gross income from taxable sources minus tax-expempt items like qualified medical expenses and retirment plan contributions.  You can find your AGI on page 1 of your Federal tax return.  You might also here AGI referred to as net income.

Check out: http://www.moneycrashers.com/charitable-contributions-tax-deductions/