Contributions to civic leagues or other section 501(c)(4) organizations generally are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. They may be deductible as trade or business expenses, if ordinary and necessary in the conduct of the taxpayer's business. However, see Nondeductible Lobbying and Political Expenditures for more information. Also, the organization may be required to disclose that contributions are not deductible when it solicits contributions. Donations to volunteer fire companies are deductible as charitable contributions on the donor's federal income tax return, but only if made for exclusively public purposes. Similarly, contributions to certain war veterans organizations are deductible. If the contributions are deductible as charitable contributions, substantiation and disclosure requirements PDF may apply. Return to Life Cycle of a Social Welfare Organization
