Jesus said that we should render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s and unto God what is God's.  Throughout the Bible, we are always encouraged to honor and respect government authorities and this command includes the IRS.  Following IRS regulations when filing our tax returns are an important part of following Christ as well as receiving God's blessing.  Our government is given by God for our protection and we indeed live in a blessed nation and are blessed with the best governing system in the world today!  
The IRS has made some new rules that we should be aware of when claiming a deduction for charitable contributions.  
When you file your tax return for 2008, you'll need better evidence of your charity with new IRS rules.  In the past, all you needed to claim a deduction for a cash donation was a bank statement, a diary or even a note to yourself, now it is important to save cancelled checks or get receipts.  You will need a bank record or a written communication from the charity showing the name of the charity and the date and amount of the contribution. Bank records including canceled checks or bank or credit union statements containing the name of the charity along with the date and the amount of the contribution are acceptable according to the IRS but it is always nice to get a receipt directly from the charity that you give to. Here are some additional tips from the IRS:

·Charitable contributions are deductible only if you itemize deductions using Form 1040.

·Contributions must be made to a qualified organization.

·Used clothing and household items such as furniture, linens and appliances must be in good used condition.

·Vehicle donations are subject to special rules.

·To deduct charitable contributions of items valued at $250 or more you must have a written acknowledgment from the qualified organization.

·To deduct charitable contributions of items valued at $500 or more you must complete a Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions, and attached the form to your return.

To learn more about IRS regulations, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov.  If you are interested in donating a non cash donation such as a car, real estate, boat or collectible, visit www.idonate.com and learn of the many options to bless ministries with our wealth of stuff.