With just a few days left in the year here are a few year-end reminders:

 

1. Cash donations to qualified charities must be post marked by December 31st to be deducted on your 2012 tax return. Contributions made by credit card must be processed by midnight on December 31st, as well. For cash donations over $250 you must have a donation acknowledgement (not a receipt) from the organization by the time you file your tax return in order to take the deduction.  

 

2. A deduction, up to $5,000 per taxpayer, is allowed as an adjustment to income on your Alabama income tax return for contributions made to a Alabama CollegeCounts 529 Fund or PACT Program. Contributions must be made by December 31. 

 

3. December 31st is also the deadline to apply for property tax exemption for Alabama residents over age 65 or disabled. This exemption must be claimed in advance and in person at the Tax Assessor's Office. You must bring proof of age or disability and your most recent Federal and State income tax returns.