I’m an American sick of being taxed by the dysfunctional US federal government and am looking for ways to reduce the amount paid as well as increase my contribution to society. I’m not looking to reduce state taxes.
How can I find out the amount I can donate to charities each year such that it reduces my federal taxes as much as possible for my income level?
The standard deduction is $14,600 for FY 2024 ($15,000 for FY 2025)
So you would have to itemize your deductions and donate at least the difference between $14,600 and the itemized deduction total to “break even” if you were to not take the standard deduction. And then donate above that amount to reduce the taxable amount.
One scummy way would be to have an artist friend paint you something. If you can get that painting appraised at a crazy high value and donate it to a valid charity, you can deduct it at the appraised value (I think, anyway.)
I would highly recommend against attempting tax fraud. The IRS does not appreciate it.
Yeah, 100%. But, AFAIK, that’s how “art” works. Though you definitely want to make sure the appraiser is legitimate; can’t just have another buddy say it’s worth $12 million and write it off as such.