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Comment by 8ig8 | Hacker News Reader

Oftentimes donation in support of museums would be tax deductible since the recipient in a 501(c)3 non-profit. I don't believe this is the case here.

Regardless of status, since the 'donor' is getting something in return it's a moot issue.

Edit: Thanks jaredsohn. I wondered as I typed that. One of those words I say, but rarely write.

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The money is goin gto a nonprofit.

http://www.teslasciencecenter.org/about/

Even though it is a non-profit, I _think_ the donation is not considered a tax write-off because the donor is receiving something in return: a photo, a sticker, a T-shirt, advertising (blog post).

The companies should be able to deduct it fully.

The museum aspect, non profit status etc doesn't matter. It's a legitimate marketing expense - they're paying the money to get on the front page of The Oatmeal, the same as if it went straight in The Oatmeal's pockets.

it depends and the amount can vary. I buy season tickets for my colleges football team and the seats I request have a minimum donation value required with them. all goes to a 501 3c, but if I recall its deductible at 70% of donation value.

Wouldn't it be like making a pledge to a local public broadcaster? You get gifts for those, but they are still tax deductible.

Like jamesmcn says, you have to deduct the fair value of the gifts from your donation. Usually the gift receipt says the amount.

The last time I checked, if you receive something for your donation, you have to subtract the value of whatever you received from your total donation amount. You can then claim that difference as a deduction on your taxes.

Example: Donate $100 to PBS and receive a $10 CD. Subtract the value of the CD from the donation: $90. You can claim a deduction of $90 on your taxes.

But in the case of a corporation, treating the whole thing as a marketing expense is probably easier and would yield the same result.

[I'm not a lawyer or tax accountant or any other kind of authority on taxes. Check with the IRS or competent council before filing your taxes!]

I'm also bad at spelling.

mute -> moot

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