Can You Get a Tax Deduction for Your Wedding Dress?
Yes! Wedding dress donations to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are fully tax-deductible at fair market value. For designer gowns, this can mean a deduction of $500-$5,000+ depending on brand and condition.
OnlyFuego is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We provide professional appraisals and IRS-compliant documentation for all wedding dress donations.
What's Your Wedding Dress Worth?
The IRS requires "fair market value"—what a buyer would pay. Typical ranges:
Important: You deduct current resale value, not original price. A $5,000 dress worn once might be worth $1,500-$2,500.
IRS Requirements
Under $250
Receipt from nonprofit + bank record.
$250-$500
Written acknowledgment from nonprofit.
$500-$5,000
Form 8283 with your tax return.
Over $5,000
Qualified appraisal required (we provide).
What We Accept
✅ We Accept
- Designer wedding gowns
- Gently used formal dresses
- Vintage wedding gowns
- Designer bridesmaid dresses
❌ Cannot Accept
- Heavily stained dresses
- Damaged or torn gowns
- Incomplete alterations
- Severe yellowing
Tax Deduction Values by Designer
Approximate fair market values for popular wedding dress designers (excellent condition):
Values depend on condition, alterations, and current market demand.
How to Maximize Your Tax Deduction
Have It Professionally Cleaned
Clean, preserved dresses command higher fair market values.
Document Everything
Photos showing condition, labels, and any defects protect your deduction.
Donate Before December 31
Donation must be complete before year-end to claim on this year's taxes.
Include Accessories
Veil, headpiece, shoes, and jewelry can be donated together for a larger deduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deduct the original purchase price of my wedding dress?
No. The IRS requires you to deduct fair market value—what a buyer would pay today. For a dress worn once, this is typically 30-50% of original retail price.
Do I need the original receipt to donate my wedding dress?
Not required, but helpful. We can appraise based on comparable sales of similar dresses online and at consignment shops.
Does the wedding dress need to be cleaned before donating?
Not required, but professionally cleaned and preserved dresses typically receive higher appraisals and deduction values.
Can I donate bridesmaid dresses too?
Yes! Bridesmaid dresses, mother-of-the-bride dresses, flower girl dresses, veils, and accessories are all tax-deductible.
How long does the donation process take?
Once we receive your dress, we provide an appraisal and tax receipt within 5-7 business days.