When you give to Save the Children, Gift Aid is one of the simplest ways to increase your impact.
What is gift aid?
Gift Aid is a government scheme which enables registered charities in the United Kingdom to claim back tax from HMRC on donations made by UK taxpayers. It allows us to claim an extra 25% on top of the original donation - at no extra cost to you. This means your support can go even further to help children stay safe, healthy and learning.
WHO CAN USE GIFT AID?
You can use Gift Aid if:
- You are a UK taxpayer
- You have paid enough UK Income Tax or Capital Gains Tax in the current tax year
The amount of tax you pay must be at least equal to the amount we (and any other charity you support) will claim through Gift Aid.
HOW TO ADD GIFT AID TO YOUR DONATIONS.
Adding Gift Aid is quick and straightforward.
When you donate, simply tick the Gift Aid box or let us know that you would like your donation to be treated as Gift Aid. We may ask you to confirm your name and address so that we can process the claim.
Once you've made your declaration, it can apply to:
- Your current donation
- Any donations you've made in the past four years
- Future donations
You can update or cancel your Gift Aid declaration at any time.
WHAT DIFFERENCE DOES GIFT AID MAKE?
Gift Aid increases the value of your support without any extra cost to you.
For example:
- A £1,000 donation becomes £,250
- A £10,000 donation becomes £12,500
These additional funds can help us reach more children with essentials like healthcare, education and protection.
IS GIFT AID A TAX EFFICIENT WAY FOR ME TO DONATE TO CHARITY?
Save the Children is able to claim the basic rate of tax as Gift Aid.
If you, the donor, are a higher rate taxpayer, you can claim back tax relief on the difference between the basic rate of tax we claim and the higher rate of tax that you pay. This is done through your self-assessment tax return or by contacting HMRC - you must keep a record of the donations you have made.
For example, if you pay 40% tax and make a £100 donation, you can claim back £25. You may choose to donate this extra tax relief to Save the Children.
We are not giving tax advice, we always recommend speaking to a qualified adviser if you would like guidance based on your personal circumstances.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- Gift Aid can only be claimed on personal donations (not on behalf of a company)
- You must have paid enough tax to cover the amount claimed
- You are responsible for letting us know if your tax situation changes
a note on tax advice
We can provide general information about Gift Aid, but we're not able to give individual tax advice. Your personal circumstance will affect how Gift Aid applies to you, so we recommend speaking with a professional adviser if needed.
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
If you would like to talk through your donation or have any questions about Gift Aid, please get in touch with our Philanthropy team.
We're always happy to help you make the most of your support.
