Senators urge tax deduction extension for tsunami relief contributions

by Jerry L. Van Marter

LOUISVILLE — Leaders of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee have introduced legislation that would extend until Jan. 31 the deadline for claiming 2004 tax deductions for donations to the tsunami relief effort in Southeast Asia.

      According to the Jan. 4 Congressional Quarterly, Senators Charles Grassley (R-IA) and Max Baucus (D-MT) said they would offer a plan to allow taxpayers to claim a 2004 deduction for contributions to tsunami disaster relief made by Jan. 31.

      “This proposal allows American companies and individuals to receive their deduction now rather than having to wait until next year to claim it,” Baucus said.

      “Americans are giving generously to tsunami relief, as they did after Sept. 11 (2001),” said Grassley, the chair of the Senate Finance Committee. “I hope this extension will encourage them to give even more.” He encouraged taxpayers to utilize established charities to make their contributions.

      Those wishing to contribute through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance may send a check through regular church channels; contribute online by visiting the web site www.pcusa.org/pda; or make a donation by phone by calling PresbyTel at 800-872-3283.