Is there a way to make pre-tax donations to a charity through payroll deduction?

Question

If an non-profit organization accepts donations, can that money be legally deducted from a paycheck on a pre-tax basis? If this can be done, how would you file the income tax return so that you don't claim it as a further deduction?

Answer 1

I have been doing payroll for 20 years and have never heard of this.

First, the money you donate to a charity is not exempt from Social Security and Med taxes so it could not be 100% tax free.

And if it could be done your W-2 would reflect a lower gross wage for your Federal. Then as for your tax return at the end of the year, you just don't claim it. You can only claim donations if you itemize anyway, and unless you own your home, you probably can't itemize.

Give because it is the right thing to do, not because you want a write off.

Answer 2

No, there are only specific items that can be taken out pre-tax from your paycheck, and charitable donations isn't one of them.

Answer 3

not one of the above. the worker is merely spending his/her own funds. the reality they could get a deduction on their own own return does not replace the fee the enterprise withholds at (the worker might could replace their W-4).