Parent Information
Understanding Gift Aid
Gift Aid is an important source of extra funds for your school’s e-learning programme. Based on the income tax you have already paid, it will not cost you a penny more. And it is currently worth 28p for every £1 you donate to the e-Learning Foundation (the charity who collects the funds on your school’s behalf). If everyone who can completes the Gift Aid declaration then we can avoid using any of the parent’s donations for the running costs of the programme.
How can I make sure my school benefits from Gift Aid?
Simply complete the ‘Gift Aid declaration’ section of the donation form from your school.
What is a Gift Aid declaration?
It is a statement by an individual taxpayer that they want a charity to get back the tax they have already paid on the money they used to make the donation.
How long does the declaration last for?
The declaration wording covers present, future and past donations.
What does the Gift Aid declaration commit me to?
Absolutely nothing! It simply lets the charity claim an extra 28% of your donation that we can put back into the programme.
Do I qualify?
For every £1 you donate to the e-Learning Foundation in a financial year, you must have paid 25p in income or capital gains tax in the same financial year. You pay these taxes if:
- Income tax is taken from your wages or salary before you receive your pay
- You pay tax after filling in a self-assessment form each year
- You have any taxable savings e.g. in a building society or pension plan
Why does it work out at 28 pence for every pound given?
It is based on the old basic tax rate of 22%. The donation of £1 is treated as what’s left after tax from £1.28 (i.e. £1.28 minus 22% is approximately £1). The charity can claim the 28p.
What if I don't pay UK tax?
If you do not pay any tax in the UK you should not make a Gift Aid declaration.
What if I'm a lower rate taxpayer?
If you pay a lower rate, the charity can claim Gift Aid on your donation, provided you pay enough tax during the year to cover the claim in the tax year you make the gift(s).
What if I'm a higher rate taxpayer?
If you declare your donations on your self-assessment tax return, you can claim a rebate based on the difference between the higher rate and the basic rate. The form also allows you to nominate a charity to receive any rebate due. So please consider this simple way to add even more to your donation to the e-Learning Foundation.
What should I do if my tax status changes?
If you start paying tax please send us your Gift Aid declaration. If you no longer pay tax, please remember to tell us right away.
Who will have access to this information about me?
Only your school, the e-Learning Foundation and the Inland Revenue. We will not share it with anyone else.
More uinformation can be found on the innland revenue site.