The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) has launched its new online Gift Aid resource.

Deloittes hosted the event last night which was attended by Chloe Smith MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury and Nick Hurd MP, Charities Minister.

The CIOT’s new online resource is designed to inform tax advisers about Gift Aid, it covers the key rules and flags up the different rules that apply in relation to certain donations. Gift Aid relief can be claimed on a broad spectrum of receipts received by charities but these are tempered by rules designed to reduce abuse and keep the spirit of the relief in line with policy objectives. 

The online resource Gift Aid: A User's Guide represents the first step of this new phase by the CIOT in its ongoing charitable activities. The next stage is to create an online "dating agency" which will match charities to advisers who are willing to assist on a pro-bono basis. The overall plan is to give those who assist charities and CASCs the confidence to get involved with Gift Aid and get started.

Patrick Stevens, Deputy President of the CIOT said

"The CIOT is delighted to be launching this initiative which has the potential to bring real benefits to the charity sector, and smaller charities in particular, across the UK."

“There is evidence that many smaller charities have difficulties with Gift Aid. What we aim to do is bring together those who need advice on Gift Aid with those who understand it and wish to help."

He thanked all including HM Treasury and HMRC for their assistance in producing the event.

Any size of charity or Community Amateur Sports Club can register to Gift Aid its donations, provided that they are received from UK taxpayers and certain donor benefit rules are not breached. Many of those who assist smaller organisations in this sector are not confident with IT skills or at completing forms and returns. This is where the CIOT appreciates that tax advisers can make a difference.