It depends on the type of GoFundMe fundraiser. Only donations made to GoFundMe charity fundraisers are guaranteed to be tax-deductible in the US, the UK, Canada, Ireland, and Australia. Those contributions go through GoFundMe’s charity partner, PayPal Giving Fund, and donors automatically receive tax receipts.

For personal fundraisers (like medical bills, education, or emergencies), the donations are usually considered “personal gifts” and are not tax-deductible for the donor. As for the recipient, the IRS generally does not treat genuine personal gifts as taxable income, but it’s always a good idea to keep records and check with a tax professional, especially if large sums are involved.

So in short:

• Donors only get a tax deduction if they donate to a GoFundMe charity fundraiser.

• Recipients of personal fundraisers typically don’t pay taxes on the money, but professional tax advice is recommended.