Foster Dog Tax Deductions
We always need foster families and here is yet another reason to foster – foster dog tax deductions! With tax season around the corner, if you were a rescue foster family for a 501(c)(3), be sure to write off your foster dog expenses this year!
Some key points regarding foster dog tax deductions:
- Keep records of your expenses including but not limited to: food, treats, paper towels, medical expenses, etc.
- Make sure the items you are deducting were not reimburse by the rescue
- Keep your receipts as (if audited) you will need to provide a list of itemized receipts
- If the total is greater than $250, request your rescue provide you a letter stating you were a foster for a rescued pet(s)
- In certain cases, utilities and cleaning supplies can be deducted, ask your accountant if this applies to you
- Money, goods, and property can be deducted – not your time
- You must be fostering for a 501(c)(3) charity (not just saving animals on your own)
The Van Dusen v. Commissioner of the IRS case wrapped up in the summer of 2011. She had over $10,000 of expenses associated with the 70+ cats she was fostering from a few rescues in California. Although not a tax attorney, she was an attorney and represented herself and won! Thanks to her, all of the NFP rescue foster families have foster dog tax deductions to help out their returns this tax season!
For more information on Van Dusen v. Commission of the IRS you can view the US Tax court case here.
If you are interested in fostering a pooch (or two) this year – you can find more information on fostering for ROMP Italian Greyhound Rescue here.
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