Can I deduct non cash charitable contributions on my tax return?

Generally, non cash charitable contributions from individuals to charitable organizations (including most schools) are tax deductible on your tax return at fair market value to the extent of their tax basis (purchase price less depreciation). First, you should determine what the fair market value of the non cash charitable contributions is. If the value of the non cash charitable contributions are more than $250 you must have the non cash charitable contributions substantiated by a contemporaneous written acknowledgment. Generally, the acknowledgment must include the amount of cash and a description of the non cash charitable contributions, and a description and good-faith estimate of the value of any goods or services received for the non cash charitable contributions. If the value of the non cash charitable contributions are more than $500, you must fill out Section A of Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions. If you make non cash charitable contributions of non cash property worth more than $5,000, generally an appraisal must be done. In that case, you also fill out Section B of Form 8283. Attach Form 8283 to your tax return. For more information on this requirement, refer to IRS Publication 526, Charitable Contributions.

Restrictions on Charitable Contributions made after August 17, 2006
Cash contributions
All cash contributions made in tax years beginning after August 17, 2006, to any qualified charity must be supported by a dated bank record or a dated receipt. The tax year for most individual taxpayers begins on January 1.

Clothing and household items
Beginning with contributions made after August 17, 2006, no deduction is allowed for most contributions of clothing and household items unless the donated property is in good used condition or better.