The Haiti Assistance Income Tax Relief Act allows U.S. taxpayers making contributions for the relief of Haitian earthquake victims to choose to deduct contributions from either 2009 or 2010 federal taxes, if the donor itemizes charitable contributions on her/his tax return.

To be eligible for an accelerated deduction, the contributions must be made after January 11, 2010 and before March 1, 2010.

Consult with your tax professional for details and check to see if your state is offering a similar option for state tax returns. Please retain the acknowledgment letter you receive after making a donation with your records to show that your gift was made for relief for victims of the earthquake in Haiti.