WASHINGTON D.C., DC — Congresswoman Luria requested clarification from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about donations made to the Virginia Beach mass shooting victims.
The IRS confirmed that "individuals receive … from members of the public in response to a disaster or emergency hardship” are not considered taxable income for recipients.
City officials had approached Congresswoman Luria with questions surrounding taxation of disbursements from a fund they established to help victims, survivors, and their families.
The United Way of South Hampton Roads, who is collecting donations for the victims and their families, said the donations made might not be able to be tax deductible. Click here to donate or text the keyword VABEACH to 41444.
“My focus remains on the families of the 12 wonderful people who were taken from us before their time and those who were injured,” Congresswoman Luria said. “I am glad that the IRS has recognized the unfathomable hardships that our community experienced, and I will continue to do everything possible to assist the victims, their families, and our Virginia Beach community.”
Commissioner Rettig responded in a letter dated June 13: “Payments that individuals receive, directly or indirectly, from members of the public in response to a disaster or emergency hardship are considered gifts and are excluded from the gross income of the recipients under Section 102 of the Internal Revenue Code.”
PHOTOS: Virginia Beach shooting victims
The letter Luira wrote to the IRS Commissioner Charles R. Rettig, and his response are below:
VB TRAGEDY COVERAGE:
- Virginia Beach tries to dispel 'rumors' about mass shooting
- You might want to take note of this temporary relocation and other items at the Municipal Center
- Local businesses 'Signs of Strength' campaign support Virginia Beach shooting victims
- FBI completes involvement in Virgina Beach shooting investigation, VBPD still on scene
- Wear your #LoveForVB! Donate to the Virginia Beach Tragedy Fund, and receive a special T-shirt.
- Virginia Beach city employees observe moment of silence for victims of municipal center shooting