Important: We provide receipts. We do not appraise.
OnlyFuego is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, not a qualified appraisal firm. We issue itemized donation receipts confirming what you gave us, and we share comparable-sales reference data to help you estimate fair market value. Per IRS rules, donors are responsible for determining fair market value when filing taxes. For donations over $5,000, the IRS specifically requires an independent qualified appraisal from a credentialed appraiser, and that has to come from someone other than the receiving charity.
What We Provide Vs. What You Provide
✓ What OnlyFuego provides
- An itemized 501(c)(3) tax receipt confirming the items donated, the date received, and our nonprofit status
- Authentication of designer pieces (where possible)
- Comparable-sales reference data from resale markets like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, Fashionphile, and consignment shops
- Photographs and condition notes for your records
- Form 8283 guidance and links to IRS publications
- Referrals to credentialed appraisers when you need a qualified appraisal
→ What you (the donor) provide
- The fair market value estimate that goes on your tax return (using our reference data + your judgment)
- Form 8283 with your tax filing if total non-cash deductions exceed $500
- An independent qualified appraisal from a credentialed appraiser if any single item or group of similar items is valued over $5,000
- Records of original purchase price (when available) and condition documentation
IRS Requirements by Donation Value
Under $250
Itemized 501(c)(3) receipt is sufficient documentation. We provide that automatically.
$250 – $500
Written acknowledgment from the nonprofit (we provide). Donor estimates fair market value when filing.
$500 – $5,000
File Form 8283 Section A with your tax return. Donor determines fair market value (our value guides include comparable-sales data to support a reasonable estimate). No qualified appraisal required.
Over $5,000 (or $500 for clothing in less-than-good condition)
Independent qualified appraisal required by IRS. The appraisal must be performed by a credentialed appraiser who is independent of the donor and the receiving charity. File Form 8283 Section B with your tax return. OnlyFuego cannot provide qualified appraisals, but we can refer you to specialists.
Over $20,000 (art / collectibles) or $500,000 (any item)
Qualified appraisal must be attached directly to the tax return. Higher scrutiny applies. Consult a tax professional.
Where to find a qualified appraiser
The IRS defines a "qualified appraiser" as someone who has earned an appraisal designation from a recognized professional appraiser organization, regularly performs appraisals for compensation, and is independent of both the donor and the donee. The three accrediting bodies recognized by the IRS for personal-property appraisals are:
- American Society of Appraisers (ASA): find a member at appraisers.org
- International Society of Appraisers (ISA): find a member at isa-appraisers.org
- Appraisers Association of America (AAA): find a member at appraisersassociation.org
Look specifically for appraisers credentialed in personal property with experience in designer fashion, vintage couture, jewelry, or whatever category fits your donation. Email dan@fashionablygood.com if you'd like a referral.
Ready to donate?
Request a free prepaid mailer or ship directly to us. We'll send your itemized 501(c)(3) receipt and value-guide reference data within 2 weeks of receiving your pieces.
Or send directly to: OnlyFuego, 2946 N Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53211
This page is general information, not tax advice. Tax rules change and individual situations vary, so consult a qualified tax professional or CPA before claiming any deduction. IRS Publication 561 ("Determining the Value of Donated Property") and Publication 526 ("Charitable Contributions") are the authoritative references.