Maximize Your Impact: How the New IRS Law Makes Donating to Sojourn Easier for Everyone

Donating to causes you care about has always been a meaningful way to make a difference. Now, a recent change in IRS law makes it easier for more people to benefit from their generosity. If you have not itemized your taxes in the past this update allows you to claim tax deductions for charitable donations to Sojourn Shelter & Services. This change opens new doors for supporters who want to help but were previously unsure about the tax benefits.

This post explains how the new IRS rule works, why it matters for donors and Sojourn, and how you can take advantage of this opportunity to support people experiencing domestic violence in your community.

What Changed in the IRS Law About Charitable Donations

Before this change, only taxpayers who itemized deductions on their tax returns could claim donations as tax-deductible. Most people take the standard deduction because it is simpler and often more beneficial. This meant many donors did not receive tax benefits for their gifts unless they kept detailed records and itemized. This change removes a significant barrier for many potential donors who want to help but were unsure if their gift would affect their taxes.

The IRS now allows a universal deduction for charitable donations up to a certain amount, even if you do not itemize. This means:

• You can deduct donations up to $1000 for individuals or $2000 for married couples filing jointly (amounts may vary by tax year).

  
  

• This deduction applies to cash donations made directly to Sojourn Shelter & Services.

  
  

• The process is simple and you'll get tax relief!

  
  

Why This Matters for Sojourn Shelter & Services

Sojourn Shelter & Services provides critical support to people facing domestic violence including emergency shelter, meals, counseling and court advocacy. Donations fund these programs and help the shelter operate day to day.

With the new IRS rule, more people can donate confidently, knowing their gift counts toward a tax deduction even if they don’t itemize. For Sojourn this means:

• Increased donations from a wider group of supporters.

  
  

• More stable funding to expand services and reach more individuals in need.

  
  

• Greater personal involvement as people feel encouraged to contribute to our mission.

  
  

For example, a donor who previously gave $100 but did not itemize can now deduct that amount on their tax return, making the gift more financially appealing.

How to Make the Most of the New Deduction When Donating

To benefit from this tax change, keep these tips in mind:

• Donate cash or check directly to Sojourn Shelter & Services. Online donations through the shelter’s official website also qualify.

  
  

• Keep a receipt or bank record showing the date and amount of your donation. This documentation is necessary when filing your taxes.

  
  

• Check your tax filing status to understand your deduction limit. Single filers can deduct up to $1000, married couples up to $1000.

  
  

• Consider timing your donations before the end of the tax year to claim the deduction on your current return.

  
  

• Employer match donations are programs where companies match the charitable contributions made by their employees, effectively doubling or even tripling the impact of their donations. Ask your employer if they participate.

  
  

If you usually itemize, this change does not affect your ability to deduct donations beyond these limits. But if you take the standard deduction, this new rule gives you a chance to reduce your taxable income by supporting Sojourn Shelter & Services!

Real-Life Impact of Donations on Sojourn’s Work

Donations to Sojourn Shelter & Services directly improve lives. Here are some examples of what your gift can do:

• $25 per month provides a survivor personal hygiene items

• $100 per month provides a survivor food and medications

• $50 per month provides a survivor transportation for 3 months, helping them get to work, school medical appointments, the grocery store or childcare

• $250 per month provides a survivor 30 nights of safe shelter as well as food, personal hygiene items, laundry needs, OTC meds and bus tokens

• $500 per month provides a family fleeing domestic violence a deposit, rent and utility turn-on, allowing them to secure safe permanent housing

  
  

These tangible benefits show how even modest donations add up to meaningful change. Any gift is truly appreciated. You can choose to give a one-time gift or a monthly reoccurring gift. The new IRS deduction makes it easier to give regularly and confidently.

Encouraging More People to Give

Many people want to help but hesitate because they don’t itemize taxes or understand the benefits of donating. Sharing information about this IRS update can:

• Motivate friends and family to contribute.

  
  

• Increase awareness of Sojourn’s mission.

  
  

• Build a stronger community network supporting those in need.

  
  

You can spread the word by talking about the new deduction, sharing this post or inviting others to visit Sojourn’s website www.help4dv.org to learn more.

Final Thoughts on Giving with the New IRS Law

The IRS change makes donating more accessible and rewarding for everyone! You can now support Sojourn Shelter & Services and receive a tax deduction even if you don’t itemize. This is a chance to make a bigger impact with your generosity.

If you have been considering donating but held back because of tax concerns, now is the time to act. Your gift helps provide shelter, support and hope to people facing domestic violence in your community.