USATODAY.com - Bill allows early deduction of tsunami donations

USATODAY.com - Bill allows early deduction of tsunami donations: "Bill allows early deduction of tsunami donations
By Sandra Block, USA TODAY
In an unusual show of bipartisan unity, Congress approved legislation Thursday that would let taxpayers deduct this month's donations to tsunami relief efforts on their 2004 tax returns.
The rule change � believed to be unprecedented and certainly so in recent history � means millions of taxpayers who contribute to tsunami-related charities this month won't have to wait until next year to claim the deductions. Ordinarily, taxpayers are required to claim deductions in the year they're made. The exception applies to cash donations made to disaster relief agencies through Jan. 31.
President Bush is expected to sign the bill."