If you are a UK taxpayer, the value of your donation can be increased by 25%.  This carries no additional costs to you. The Gift Aid Scheme introduced by HM Revenue and Customs is one of the most effective ways to give to charity. By ticking the Gift Aid box, for every one pound you give, Gift Aid add’s at least 25p extra to your charity donation.  Your donations are eligible under the Gift Aid Scheme if you have paid enough income / capital gains tax to cover the amount of tax that all the charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs you donate to will reclaim on your Gift Aid Donations in any tax year. Council Tax and VAT do not count.