Since the new "Gift-Aid" measures were introduced in April 2000 you can now get extra tax relief by donating shares and securities to charity. This means that if you donate shares or securities to Mind in Barnet you will be able to claim a deduction in your income for the tax year in which the donation takes place.

The amount that you can deduct is based on the market value of the shares at the donation date plus any incidental costs (brokers' fees etc.). You can reclaim the tax relief at your top rate of tax on your self-assessment form.

What qualifies for this tax-relief?

• Shares & securities listed or dealt in on the UK Stock Exchange, including the Alternative Investment Market
• Shares or securities listed or dealt in on an overseas recognised stock exchange
• Units in an authorised unit trust (AUT)
• Shares in a /UK open-ended company (OEIC)
• Holdings in certain foreign collective investment schemes
• If you are unsure whether shares or securities qualify for the scheme, you should contact Inland Revenue for advice.

How do you calculate and claim the tax relief?

• You deduct the value of the donated shares from your income tax in the year in which the gift was made
• You can deduct the market value of the share plus and incidental fees (broker's fees/ stamp duty etc.)
• You cannot deduct and disposal proceeds or other money or the value of any other benefits you, or a person connected with you (relatives etc.), receive in consequence of your giving or selling shares to the charity
• You can claim relief at your highest rate of tax on your self-assessment form - or if you do not usually receive a tax return you should contact your tax office.

Additional information:

• The Inland Revenue's leaflet IR178 will give you more information on donating shares or securities to charity.