Need a last minute Christmas present? Talk charity

’Tis the season to give, and what better way to do so than to give to those less fortunate?

For clients who have some last minute shopping to do, suggest they open their wallets to a charity on behalf of that special someone.

Not only do will it leave them feeling good, but they’ll also receive tax benefits. And all charitable donations made before December 31 get a tax receipt for 2012.

Read: Don’t miss these year-end tax deadlines

However, warn your client about gifting tax shelter schemes. If a charity offers a tax receipt for an amount larger than she donates, it’s probably not a valid organization. Getting tax advice before signing any documents is best.

Read: Protect clients from gifting tax shelter schemes

Here are some more articles to help your clients before they donate and help others.

Charity fraud concerns abound

Give more for less

4 questions to ask before clients put charities in their wills

Start the donation discussion

Charity on rise: BMO

Don’t waste charity tax credits

Contest unusual conditions in wills

Giving through donor-advised funds

‘Tis the season for charity scams

Gifting insurance to charity