Some clients are confused about donations and how they work, in regards to taxes. Often people don't bring in the receipts because they think they will not amount to much, while others think that there is a standard deduction for everyone, regardless of the amount donated (Revenue Canada took that away 25 years ago...).

It is really quite simple... the first $200 you donate, you will receive 25% back on your taxes. Any amount over that in a claim and you will receive almost half back.

And spouses can pool their donations, so one person claims all the donations and as a result, get a larger tax deduction.

And finally, you can actually save up all your donation receipts for five years and claim them all at once.

Knowing that you receive almost half your money back may make you more inclined to donate.