Donations to missionaries
Varies
Can You Write Off Donations to Missionaries?
Short answer: Yes if you give through a church or mission agency that controls the funds, even if you name a missionary; gifts straight to the person aren't deductible.
The receipt should come from the organization, not the missionary.
Records to keep: Keep receipts, statements, and a note of what each cost was for. Compare itemizing to the 2026 standard deduction ($16,100 single / $32,200 joint) before you claim.
Donations to missionaries
Varies
Individuals / Personal Taxes
Yes if you give through a church or mission agency that controls the funds, even if you name a missionary; gifts straight to the person aren't deductible.
Business justification
Yes if you give through a church or mission agency that controls the funds, even if you name a missionary; gifts straight to the person aren't deductible. The receipt should come from the organization, not the missionary.
Category
- Personal Tax Deductions