Gift Aid Declaration (UK Tax Payers ONLY)
What is a Gift Aid Declaration?
It is a statement by a taxpayer that they want a charity to get back from the Inland Revenue the tax paid on their donation (this includes membership subscriptions to the Ramblers' Association). There is no extra cost at all to the member.
When did it start?
It was decided in the budget in March 2000 and started on 6 April 2000.
What about payments I have already paid?
Payments from 6th April 2000 can be included retrospectively. Payments before that are not covered.
Who can sign it?
The form does not have to be signed so long as it is clear whose name it is in. It must be dated. For joint members it should be in the name of the one who pays the subscriptions, unless it is paid out of a joint account when either can complete the Gift Aid Declaration provided they are tax payers.
How long does it last for?
It goes on forever unless it is cancelled.
What does it commit me to?
Nothing at all.
Will there be any additional forms to sign?
No other forms.
When can I cancel?
It can be cancelled at any time. All you have to do is tell us.
Does it apply to all payments to the Ramblers' Association?
All donations and subscriptions are covered (unless they are paid out of a CAF account because that has already had tax recovery). Purchases (such as books, raffles tickets) are not.
How much in the £ / why 28 pence?
The donation/subscription is treated as the money left after paying standard rate of income tax (22(%) in the £).
For example:
The payment for £10.00 is the net after tax from £12.82 (£12.82 minus 22% is the £10.00). The Ramblers' Association get back the £2.82 which is about 28% of the £10.00 paid by you.
What if I only pay tax at a lower rate?
It does not matter. The law says it is ok provided that the total amount of tax paid (income tax or capital gains tax) is enough to cover what the charity get back. Example as above, you would have to pay at least £2.82 tax altogether.
What about higher rate tax (40 pence in the pound)?
The Ramblers Association can only claim tax back at the standard rate (22%). Members who are higher rate (40%) tax payers can get back the extra themselves by completing a tax return.
What if I also pay tax on my pension, dividends etc..
It does not matter. Its still tax even if its just on the bank account interest for example.
What if I stop paying tax?
Just let us know and we will cancel the Gift Aid Declaration.
If you have further questions regarding Gift Aid please email.
