The problem is that it is up to the taxpayer to determine the value of goods that are donated. As a general rule, the IRS likes to see individuals value the items they donate anywhere between 1% and 30% of the original purchase price (unless special circumstances exist).

Does the IRS audit charitable donations?

Non-Cash Contributions

Donating non-cash items to a charity will raise an audit flag if the value exceeds the $500 threshold for Form 8283, which the IRS always puts under close scrutiny. If you fail to value the donated item correctly, the IRS may deny your entire deduction, even if you underestimate the value.

How much can I claim for charitable donations without getting audited?

Deductions for your donations to charitable organizations can't exceed 50 percent of a certain calculation of your adjusted gross income (AGI), and the limit is 30 percent for donations to certain private foundations, veterans organizations, fraternal societies, and cemetery organizations.