IRS offers tax tips for charitable giving

The end of the year is traditionally a month for giving generously to charities, friends and family. But it’s also a time that can have a major impact on the tax return you’ll file in the New Year. Here are some “Season of Giving” tips from the IRS covering everything from charity donations to refund planning:

Contribute to qualified charities

To take an itemized charitable deduction on a 2012 tax return, the donation must go to a qualified charity by Dec. 31. Ask the charity about its tax-exempt status. People can also visit IRS.gov and use the Exempt Organizations Select Check tool to see if...