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Society Gains Tax-Exempt Status

When the Henry Shaw Cactus and Succulent Society achieved federal tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in May 2007, donations to the club became tax-deductible.

Donate to HSCSS

To donate to the society online, use the link above. You may also mail checks made payable to Henry Shaw Cactus Society to P. O. Box 191522, St. Louis, Missouri 63119. HSCSS Treasurer Janet Kister returns brief letters to acknowledge all donations received.

Cash donations are fully deductible. Significant donations of property like large plants, reference books or auction items used to raise money for the club may provide additional deductions. Contact one of the HSCSS officers before making such a donation to establish suitability and value. When available, sales receipts are naturally helpful in this process.

Since HSCSS membership provides goods and services, annual membership dues are not deductible. But members can, for example, claim a federal income tax deduction for mileage to and from club events at which they provide a volunteer service. This applies to official committee meetings, volunteering at the annual show and similar efforts.

If you drive to and from the volunteer work, you can take the actual cost of gas and oil or 14 cents a mile when you itemize deductions on Schedule A, the IRS guidelines said. Add parking and tolls, if applicable. Other out-of-pocket expenses for club-related volunteer activities that are not directly reimbursed can also be claimed.