Tax Deductibility of Contribution Costs
In most cases, contributions by US citizens to support scientific research projects sponsored by Earthwatch are tax deductible, and under certain circumstances, volunteers may deduct reasonable out-of-pocket expenses including transportation to and from research sites.
As a result, if you itemize deductions on your tax return, the real cost to you of joining an Earthwatch expedition could be as much as 40% lower than you expect!
Earthwatch Institute is a public charity, described by Sections 501(c)(3), 509(a)(1) and 170(b)(1)(A)(VI)of the Internal Revenue Code. It is not a private foundation. Contributions of cash, securities, and other properties support scientific research and are wholly tax-deductible within the United States. Please note that contributions are tax deductible only upon completion of giving, and that your payment(s) towards an Earthwatch expedition may be tax deductible only after you have fielded on the expedition. Earthwatch Family Expeditions are not tax deductible, and as with all tax matters, Earthwatch recommends you consult your personal tax advisor on all issues concerning tax deductibility.
Click here for more information on how you can reduce the cost of joining an Earthwatch expedition, and should you have any questions related to tax deductibility of Earthwatch expeditions, please call us at: 1-800-776-0188 or 1-978-461-0081.