Tax receipt issuing policy puts onus on those donating to make a request for it
Donations over NZ$5 made to earthquake relief efforts in Christchurch are eligible for a 33.3% tax deduction, but you might have to work for it.
While receipts for donations via a credit card are automatically issued by those providers, the same does not apply to donations made via internet banking or through a bank.
Internal Affairs manager of communication Colin Feslier said those who wanted to receive a tax receipt for cash donations made to the earthquake relief efforts could obtain one by making a request through their bank or by emailing the Department of Internal Affairs.
Donations to help with relief efforts continue to pour in through various channels.
Westpac alone has received more than NZ$1.3 million for an account set up on behalf of the Salvation Army. Media advisor Haley Lynch said receipts for donations made at a branch would be issued by Westpac. In cases of on-line donations, Lynch said the final confirmation screen on the transaction doubled as a tax receipt.
The country's four largest bank announced last week combined donation of $NZ4 million. Most banks have set up earthquake relief accounts to encourage donations.
Meanwhile, Revenue Minister Peter Dunne is considering a request to amend tax laws so that goods in kind donated to earthquake relief efforts receive the same tax treatment as cash. (For details see our earlier article).
Dunne said Inland Revenue was also going to take a 'flexible approach' to businesses and others affected by the earthquake with respect to upcoming tax filings.
Other ways to donate
Internet Banking
Donations can be made with internet banking:
Account name: Christchurch Earthquake Appeal
Account number: 03 0251 0039807 00At any Westpac branch
Donations can be made at any Westpac branch.
TXT donations
If you are in New Zealand, free txt 'chch' to 933 to donate $3 to the Christchurch
Earthquake Appeal. This option is only available in New Zealand.
You will not be charged the cost of sending the text.If you wish to receive a donation receipt for donations of more than $5, please request
one from the Department of Internal Affairs.
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