If you’re merely attending services, then you’re absolutely correct!
However, if you’re actually volunteering your time for a charitable purpose in keeping with the church’s mission (stocking the soup kitchen, helping prepare meals for the homeless, etc.), it would be deductible.
But simply showing up? Absolutely not deductible.
I always get clients though that want to deduct driving to/from church as charitable mileage. Let’s be clear that doesn’t count, shall we?
If you’re merely attending services, then you’re absolutely correct!
However, if you’re actually volunteering your time for a charitable purpose in keeping with the church’s mission (stocking the soup kitchen, helping prepare meals for the homeless, etc.), it would be deductible.
But simply showing up? Absolutely not deductible.
The best way to get a charitable deduction for driving to/from church is to remember to pay your toll while you’re there.