Tax Deductible Donating in Mexico
A U.S. citizen can usually deduct donations to a U.S.-registered nonprofit (501(c)(3)), even if that organization does most or all of its charitable work in Mexico — as long as:
- The nonprofit is legally organized in the United States (under U.S. law), and
- It has been granted 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status by the IRS, and
- You make the donation to the U.S. entity itself (not directly to a Mexican partner or affiliate).
Suppose:
- SBPA San Carlos is a U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit registered in Arizona.
- It runs spay/neuter clinics and animal welfare programs in Mexico
- You, a U.S. citizen, donate $500 to SBPA.
That donation is fully deductible on your U.S. tax return, subject to normal IRS limits (typically up to 60% of AGI for cash gifts), because the donee is a U.S. public charity — even though the operations occur in Mexico.
The IRS focuses on the legal status and control of the recipient organization, not where its charitable activities take place.
From IRS Publication 526 (Charitable Contributions):
“You can deduct contributions only if you make them to a qualified organization. Most organizations created or organized in the United States are qualified organizations. Contributions to a U.S. organization that transfers funds to a foreign charity may be deductible if the U.S. organization controls the use of the funds.”
Making a donation to the SBPA not only helps our local community it may also provide you with a valuable deduction on your tax return. You can help today by making a donation to the SBPA:
Or visit our donation page for information on making donations via check, cash, wire transfer or other options: SBPA DONATION OPTIONS