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Credit calculator

Estimate your $1,700 credit.

Enter your income and planned donation. We'll estimate your federal tax, the credit you can use this year and what carries forward. Nothing you enter leaves your browser.

Before tax. We take off the standard deduction and estimate your federal tax from there.

The credit covers up to $1,700 of it.

Credit this year

$—

The smallest of your donation, $1,700 and your tax

Your federal tax
Estimated from your income
$—
Carries forward
Yours to use over the next five years
$—
Pledge this donation

Tax taken out of every paycheck? You still benefit. The credit counts against the tax you owe for the year, so it raises your refund or shrinks what you pay.

The calculations above are general estimates. Your personal eligibility can be affected by numerous changeable factors, including state and federal law and regulations, single/joint filing status, your tax liability, and charitable deductions. Consult with your tax preparer for individualized advice.

Method

How the estimate works

  1. Step 01

    We estimate your federal tax

    From your income and filing status, using the 2025 brackets and standard deductions. Or enter the figure from your own return.

  2. Step 02

    The credit is capped

    At $1,700, and it can't be more than the tax you owe. For joint returns we use one $1,700 credit until Treasury says otherwise.

  3. Step 03

    The rest carries forward

    Anything you can't use this year carries forward for up to five years, so it isn't lost.

Help

Questions, answered

  • I usually get a refund. Can I still benefit?

    Yes. The credit reduces the tax you owed for the year. Your refund grows by the same amount.

  • What does non-refundable mean?

    The credit can take your federal tax to zero but not below. If you owe less than $1,700, the unused part carries forward for up to five years. (Source: §25F(f))

  • Can I get the benefit in my paycheck instead of waiting?

    Yes, by adjusting your Form W-4 after you've made your donation. Talk to your preparer first.

  • Does the credit affect the alternative minimum tax?

    Under current law, credits like this one can offset both regular tax and AMT. Treasury hasn't issued specific guidance. High-income donors should ask their preparer.

Every donor question is on the FAQ page.

All donor questions