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Donation - What Is a Donation?

By Joanne Fritz, About.com

Definition:

A voluntary gift (usually money, services, property, new or used goods, assets such as stocks and bonds) to a worthwhile cause, typically for charitable purposes. The donation (often called a contribution) may be tax deductible under United States Internal Revenue Service rules if given to an IRS registered 501(c)(3) charity.

Related to Donation:

Also Known As: contribution, charitable gift, in-kind donation
Examples:
My parents gave a donation of $500 to two of their favorite charitable causes last year.
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