Community Corner

Last Chance to Donate to Goodwill for 2012 Tax Deduction — Suggestions to De-clutter before 2013

Today, Monday, Dec. 31 is the last day donations can be applied to the current tax year.

Drop off donations at the Winder Goodwill location at 39 E. May St., which will be open today until 6 p.m. Call 678-425-2293 for more information. 

Today, Monday, Dec. 31, is the last day donations can be claimed as a tax deduction for 2012, so today might be a good time to take a quick inventory to see what you may have to donate to Goodwill.

Goodwill suggests creating space in your home by donating the following items.

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  1. Clothing and shoes — Take a look through your closets and drawers for items you have duplicates of, things that no longer fit or pieces you just don’t wear. Be sure to check all of the pockets for things hiding inside that you wish to keep.
  2. Books — If you’ve upgraded from paperbacks to an e-reader or you’re simply running out of space on your bookshelf, consider getting rid of a few books.
  3. CDs and DVDs — If your favorite songs are stored on an iPod and you’re streaming movies from Netflix, chances are those CDs and DVDs are just collecting dust.
  4. Kitchen appliances — Panini makers, espresso machines and waffle irons all come in handy when you use them. If that’s only once or twice a year, make space on your countertops by donating them.
  5. Cell phones — Unused cell phones are one of the fastest-growing types of trash in America. Instead of discarding your old phone, donate it. Just be sure to delete personal data and contacts before you do.
  6. Household items — An abundance of figurines, candleholders and baskets can quickly clutter up a space. Removing some of them will help your favorites stand out in a room.
  7. Computers — Box up used computers, monitors, and mice that are taking up space around your home. When you donate them to Goodwill, through a partnership Dell Reconnect those items are recycled responsibly.

Because of the increase in end-of-the-year activity at its facilities, Goodwill is reminding donors to go through a six-point check of items to be donated before leaving the house.

  1. Are the pockets empty? Make sure you have emptied pant and coat pockets, purses and suitcases of any valuables or items you wish to keep.
  2. Can Goodwill accept this? There are few household items Goodwill cannot accept. Among them are mattresses, large appliances, weapons, chemicals and carpeting.
  3. Would I give this to family member or friend? Goodwill understands its shoppers look for quality items when visiting its stores; therefore, the nonprofit has a policy against selling torn, stained and water-soaked items.
  4. Is it in good used condition? According to the Internal Revenue Service, taxpayers may claim a deduction for donated items that are in good used condition or better.
  5. Did I erase the memory? If you donate a computer, cell phone or other electronic device, be sure to delete any confidential or personal information before you bring it to Goodwill.
  6. Did I make an inventory list? Be sure to make a record of each item you donate. While you won’t need to give it to Goodwill, you may have to produce it for Uncle Sam.

For more information about Goodwill of North Georgia, visit www.goodwillng.org.

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