WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) today announced that
President Bush has signed legislation to make Americans’ charitable cash contributions to tsunami relief organizations tax deductible until January 31, 2005 for the 2004 tax year.  The bill, H.R. 241, was passed by unanimous consent in both houses of Congress early this year in the first days of the 109th Congress.

 

“In our quest to aid the victims of the Indian Ocean tsunami, Congress is striving to make it as easy as possible for Americans who donate to the organizations doing relief work throughout the affected region,” Emerson said.  “The legislation enables Americans to make a contribution up to January 31 of this year and count it as a deduction against their 2004 federal income taxes.  In a time of grave need in Southeastern and Southern Asia, the American people have shown their
sympathy and their generosity.  This new law will help Americans maximize their charitable aid.”

 

The change means Americans who contribute this month will not have to wait until 2006 to deduct the amount on their 2005 tax returns.  No special forms are needed to take the deductions, but the money donated must benefit victims of the Dec. 26 Indian Ocean tsunami.

 

“Even in a time of crisis when Americans react to help, we must be cautious about who we choose to accept our donations,” Emerson said.  “Americans who choose to donate need to be certain that the relief organization is legitimate and that the money contributed is going to charitable purposes.”

 

Information on legitimate tax-exempt organizations accepting contributions can be found at www.usaid.gov.