Giving to charity is a good feeling, and most people give freely without expecting anything in return. Even the most generous contributors will agree, however, that a break at tax time turns that good feeling into a great one.

It's easy to realize a tax break from your charitable donations. Keep track of the money you give throughout the year, and use an IRS Form 1040, Schedule A. With this document, you can let the tax agency know about your generous contributions, and you will be rewarded with a legitimate charitable tax deduction.

Like all things in life, charities can be good or bad. Most are worthy, legitimate organizations that rely on the donations of generous individuals. On the other hand, some "charities" are no more than crooks who are happy to take your cash and run. That's why it's so important to do your homework before making your donation. Ask for the group's charitable organization number. It's also a good idea to pick up a copy of the IRS Publication 78. This guide is available online and at most public libraries and provides a complete list of all charitable organizations that are recognized by tax agencies.

Not all charitable donations are tax deductible. For example, donations made to political organizations, political leaders or individuals will not realize a tax break. And, even though time is money, you cannot claim a deduction for the time that you spend holding raffles or raising money at bingo or casino games.

It is possible to claim a tax deduction for a contribution of goods, merchandise or services. These types of donations, known as "gifts in kind", can be claimed at fair market value. If, for example, you choose to donate company stocks, you can claim the value of the donated stocks. The value is calculated as an average of the highest and lowest traded prices on the valuation date.

You may also receive a tax break by donating a vehicle. The amount of the deduction will be based on the vehicle's resale value at the time of donation. This is also true of planes and boats donated to charity. However, if the claimed value of the donated boat, plane or motor vehicle exceeds $500, and the item is sold by the charitable organization, the tax break is limited to the gross proceeds from the sale.

If you are donating a household or personal item, a deduction can be claimed on the amount that the item would have fetched at a garage sale or at a flea shop. To qualify for a tax deduction, a proper receipt is required for all charitable contributions over $250.

Only contributions made during the tax year will qualify for a deduction. If you have used a credit card or issued a check, it does not matter what date the transaction shows on your account. You can claim the deduction only in the tax year that you made the donation.

Even if you don't expect to get anything in return for your goodwill, go ahead and keep a list of your charitable donations. The taxman will appreciate and reward your generosity.