Are Donations Taxable? What to Know Before Helping Cancer Patients

If you’re supporting people with cancer, you might wonder: Are donations taxable? It’s a common question, especially if you want your gift to make an impact and qualify for a tax deduction.

In the U.S., donations to registered charities like Beyond Basic Needs are typically tax-deductible, but there are rules. The donation must go to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit recognized by the IRS. You’ll also need documentation, especially if your donation is $250 or more.

Cash, property, or even stock donations can qualify. However, giving directly to an individual, like through a crowdfunding platform, won’t be tax-deductible. And if you don’t itemize deductions on your tax return, you won’t see a tax benefit either.

Know Where and How You’re Giving

If you want your donation to help cancer patients and qualify for a deduction, make sure you give through a trusted, tax-exempt organization. That ensures your support goes where it’s needed most and meets the IRS’s requirements for charitable giving.

What to Know Before Giving

If you’re donating to help cancer patients, there are a few more things to keep in mind:

  • Always get a receipt for your donation. For gifts over $250, the IRS requires a written acknowledgment that includes the amount, date, and a note that no goods or services were received in return.
  • Additional documentation may be needed if you’re donating non-cash items like clothing, supplies, or equipment. Large donations might require an appraisal.
  • Gifts to individuals, no matter how generous, are not tax-deductible. This includes giving directly to someone via crowdfunding, even if the funds go toward cancer care.

You should also talk to a tax advisor if you’re unsure how a donation fits your financial plan. While the goal is to help, it’s smart to understand how your gift aligns with current tax laws.

Giving That Makes an Impact

So, are donations taxable? The short answer: not usually, if they go to a qualified nonprofit. When you give through an organization like Beyond Basic Needs, your donation becomes more than a transaction. It provides care, comfort, and encouragement to someone going through one of the hardest chapters of their life.

Our Chemo Care Kits go directly to cancer warriors across the country. They include practical comfort items like lip balm, socks, anti-nausea support, and journals that remind each recipient they’re not alone. And yes, your donation is tax-deductible.

Donate today if you’re looking to support someone with cancer in a meaningful, secure, and tax-smart way. Every gift helps us send care and compassion exactly where it’s needed.

Chemo Care Kits

Will You Help Us Bring Comfort to a Cancer Warrior?

Your generosity powers everything we do.

Our Chemo Care Kit program exists because of people like you—individuals and businesses who choose to show up with compassion and action. We don’t receive government funding or corporate sponsorships. Every single kit is made possible through donations from our community.

Right now, we’re experiencing an overwhelming surge—a 1000% increase in requests over the past few months. That’s hundreds more people turning to us for support as they face the hardest battle of their lives.

And here’s the incredible part: it only takes $10 to send comfort, hope, and a reminder that they’re not alone.

Your $10 doesn’t just ship a box. It delivers courage, warmth, and the message: “We see you. We’re with you.”

Help us meet the moment. Help us reach them.

Donate today and be the reason someone feels a little less alone tomorrow.

More from Beyond the Blog