Gift Aid is a scheme available to charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs). It means they can claim extra money from HMRC. The charity or CASC can claim an extra 25p for every £1 you donate. That’s as long as you’ve paid the basic rate of tax and make the donation from your own funds.

What sells well in charity shops?

According to the Charity Retail Association, most charity shops sell clothing, books, toys, ornaments, kitchenware, DVDs, music, computer games and furnishings. With some also choosing to sell furniture and electrical appliances.

How often can you make a Gift Aid claim?

You can claim back 25p every time an individual donates £1 to your charity or community amateur sports club ( CASC ). This is called Gift Aid. You must be recognised as a charity or CASC for tax purposes.

How do I claim my Gift Aid online?

In order to claim online you need to:

  1. Get recognised as a charity or CASC by HMRC (if you haven’t already)
  2. Check you have the right information from the donor(s)
  3. Register for Charities Online.
  4. Compile a spreadsheet with details of donations.
  5. Submit your claim.

What happens to unwanted charity shop clothes?

All clothing is useful, even if it has holes. Clothes which can’t be sold in the shop will be sold to textile recycling companies, so they still make money for the charity. The Charity Retail Association has advice on donating unusual items.

Can charity shops accept donations during lockdown?

Once restrictions are lifted and non-essential shops are allowed to reopen, charity shops will be open to accepting donations in store as long as social distancing measures are adhered to.

Will charity shops close in lockdown?

Like all non-essential retail, charity shops across the country are closed at the moment until lockdown restrictions ease. However, thanks to platforms like Depop and eBay, many charity shops are continuing to trade online with some still accepting donations, albeit in alternative ways.

What do you do with charity clothes during lockdown?

There are three main ways to donate unwanted clothes and shoes to TRAID.

  • Donate at your nearest TRAID Clothes Recycling Bank (open during lockdown).
  • Donate at your local TRAID charity shop (hopefully from 12 April).
  • Book a free home collection from Thursday 1st April if you live in or near London.