Tax Information for Volunteers

If you volunteer for a qualified organization, the following questions and answers may be applicable to you. All the rules explained in this publication also apply. See, in particular, Out-of-Pocket expenses in Giving Services.

I volunteered 6 hours a week in the office of a qualified organization. The pay for a receptionist is $10 an hour. Can I apply for a deduction of 60 dollars a week for my time?

No, you cannot deduct the value of your time or services.

The office is 30 miles from my home. Can I deduct any of my car expenses for these trips?

Yes, you can deduct the costs of gas and oil that are directly related to getting to and from the place where you volunteer. If you do no want to figure your actual costs, you can deduct 14 cents for each mile.

Although you can't deduct the value of your services given to a qualified organization, you may be able to deduct some amounts you pay in giving services to a qualified organization.

The amounts must be:

• Unreimbursed

• Directly connected with the services

• Expenses incurred because of the services you rendered

• It cannot be personal, living, or family expenses.