Setting Up Tax-Favored Leave-Based Donation Programs Aiding Harvey Victims
by Tam Recruiting | Sep 12, 2017 | applicant tracking software, Charitable Donations, Company Culture, HR News, HR software, Hurricane, Hurricane Harvey, IRS, Leave-based donation, Tax Deductions, taxable wages, Vacation Time
Hurricane Harvey tore through Texas and Louisiana, moving slowly from August 25th through August 30th, before moving out of the area and dumping flood waters in other parts of the nation as well.
The devastation caused by one of the worst hurricanes in recorded U.S. history has left many asking what they can do to be of help in relief efforts. Many employees may be asking what contributions they’re able to make in partnership with their employer. The IRS has announced that it will permit employers to set up tax-favored leave-based donations programs.
Under leave-based donation programs, employees are able to donate a portion of their vacation, sick or personal leave time in exchange for cash payments their employers can make to qualified charitable organizations. The value of the leave donated by employees for Harvey-related relief will be excluded from their taxable wages. Therefore, donations will not be subject to withholding for taxes including federal income, So