Helping a qualified charity may now bring an additional tax opportunity to more American households.

Beginning with the 2026 tax year, taxpayers who do not itemize their deductions may be able to claim a deduction for certain cash contributions made to qualified charitable organizations.

Eligible individual filers may generally deduct up to $1,000, while married couples filing jointly may generally deduct up to $2,000 in qualifying cash contributions.

This change is important because many Americans use the standard deduction instead of itemizing. Previously, charitable tax deductions were generally associated with taxpayers who itemized their deductions on Schedule A. The new provision gives eligible standard-deduction filers another reason to carefully document their charitable giving.

However, not every payment called a “donation” qualifies. Gifts made directly to an individual are generally not deductible. The contribution needs to meet IRS requirements and be made to an eligible organization.

Taxpayers should keep receipts, bank records, acknowledgment letters, or other documentation showing how much was donated and where the money went. For larger contributions, additional documentation requirements may apply.

It is also smart to confirm an organization’s tax-exempt status before donating if you plan to claim a deduction. The IRS provides a Tax Exempt Organization Search tool for this purpose.

Charitable giving should always begin with supporting a cause you care about. But understanding the tax rules can help make sure you receive any deduction for which you legally qualify.

Save your records as you donate instead of trying to rebuild them during tax season.