Donations: How to find a non profit

This is #9 of 10 Things to Expect when downsizing!

 

Inevitably when downsizing, there will be items that you will decide to donate. In previous articles we talked about options for furniture consignment. Even if you are able to gift or consign all of the furniture you longer want, you will have other items that you need to donate. We are asked weekly for recommendations on what to do with items like pianos, large wall units, pool tables, etc.  Unless you have a friend that would like your items, you will probably need to donate them.  Here are a few things to consider when donating items

 

• Do you need the tax receipt? If you want to claim the donation on your taxes, you will want to donate to a 501-c3 organization that is a non-profit. When donating to a not for profit agency, the IRS will allow you to assign your own value to the items. You may need to confirm that the agency you have chosen is indeed tax exempt. You can check this on the IRS Website.
• Do you need the items picked up? Some organizations have a pick-up service, but not all. If pick up is important, remember to call well ahead of your deadline to make arrangements with a non-profit that also has a pick-up service.
• How will your items be used? Will your items be sold or given to those in need? Some non-profits have thrift stores where they sell items to benefit the organization. Others provide your items directly to people needing their services

 

It is a good idea to do your research and know who you are giving to. There are several agencies that have great names but are not actually non-profit agencies.  For instance, GoodWill Industries is a highly visible organization but Huffington Post reports that their CEOs make outlandish salaries and they are not required to pay employees minimum wage. See article here. There are watchdog groups that rank non profit agencies from best to worse. Some of these sights charge for information so be careful. A recent article in Consumer Reports might be helpful.  For information about some common not for profit agencies from Consumer Reports. See full article here.

 

To find reputable non profit agencies that are accepting donations in our area, visit The Huntsville Madison County Chamber of Commerce website.You can also google” Donation sites that pick up” and get a list there.

 

10 Things to Expect When Downsizing!

1) Feelings come flooding in!   Link to 1 of 10 Things to Expect When Downsizing!

2) Letting go means you lose control! Link to – Letting Go …

3) Your kids don’t want your stuff!  Link to –  Your Kids don’t want you stuff!

4) China and crystal and silver—oh my!  Link to –  China And Silver…

5) Your mother’s Mid-Century furniture is coming back!  Link to – Your Mothers Mid Century…

6) Unfortunately, the antique market is struggling! Link to The Antique market is …

7) Collections are harder to sell than you think! Link to collections

8) Self-Storage Units are a temptation you should resist! Link to Self-storage

9) Donations: How to find a non profit

10) Get a plan – You will need help! Read #10 Get a Plan!