Understanding Your Giving What We Can Donation Receipt(s)

Thank you for your generous donations through Giving What We Can. This page explains important details about your donation receipt(s) and answers common questions.

Tax Years and Reporting Periods

Different countries have different tax years, which can affect when and how your donations are reported:

United States Tax Year

In the United States, the tax year aligns with the calendar year, running from January 1st to December 31st. All US tax-deductible donations must be made within this period to be claimed on that year's tax return.

United Kingdom Tax Year

The UK tax year runs from April 6th to April 5th of the following year. For example, the 2024/2025 tax year starts on April 6th, 2024, and ends on April 5th, 2025. Gift Aid claims follow this tax year schedule.

Australian Tax Year

The Australian tax year runs from July 1st to June 30th of the following year. For example, the 2024/2025 tax year starts on July 1st, 2024, and ends on June 30th, 2025. You will receive your donation receipt in July after the tax year concludes.

Understanding Funding Partners

Giving What We Can operates through a global network of funding partners, which are registered charities in the countries where they operate. These partners are crucial for:

• Enabling tax-efficient donations in multiple jurisdictions
• Ensuring regulatory compliance in each country
• Supporting local giving communities
• Processing donations according to local requirements

Each funding partner helps facilitate donations in their respective regions while maintaining our commitment to effective giving. Each funding partner will send you individual receipts for every payment you make through their platform, as well as consolidated end-of-year receipts after their respective tax years as outlined above. If you need receipts outside of these standard tax periods, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did I receive multiple end-of-year donation receipts?

Due to our recent spin-out from Effective Ventures into independent entities, you may receive separate receipts for donations processed by different legal entities (See Understanding Funding Partners, above.) This ensures accurate record-keeping and compliance with local regulations.

Can I use my end-of-year donation receipt(s) as a tax receipt?

Yes, you can generally use your end-of-year donation receipt(s) as a tax receipt, depending on your jurisdiction and specific circumstances. However, please note:

• Some listed donations may not be tax-deductible (e.g., DAF donations, as they were already processed by a DAF provider)
• Different countries have different requirements for charitable tax receipts
• We recommend consulting with a tax professional for specific advice about your situation

What if I'm missing a donation?

• As noted above, you may receive separate receipts for donations processed by separate legal entities. Check your inbox to see if your missing donations are included in a separate receipt.
• Some types of donations take longer to process than others. If you are missing donations made through DAF providers, checks, payroll giving, or stock, they are likely still being processed.

We will send individual receipts for pending payments once they are processed. If you need a receipt urgently, please contact us at community@givingwhatwecan.org.

Need Additional Help?

If you have any questions about your receipt or donations, please don't hesitate to email us at community@givingwhatwecan.org