USA Donation Deductions

[MDQuestions]

I have 2 questions:
1. Can I deduct in Charitable giving a donation made to a unaccredited Christian School? The school did not provide any donation paperwork, but I am sure I can get a receipt.
2. If I paid for people to go to counseling as donations, can I claim that as well? There were about 5 different people of which are NOT my family members.

Thanks!

 

[kirby]

Sorry. No to both.
Also, for many people the standard deduction applies and if so you cannot take a donation as an itemized deduction.

 

[Jbarlow]

what kirby said. The donations have to be made to a 501c3 charitable foundation. If you are unsure if the entity is a 501c3 just ask them, they will know.