Maximising Gift Aid: Are CASCs and Charities Missing Out?

For many community sports clubs, securing sustainable income is a constant challenge. Clubs registered as Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) or charities already benefit from tax relief, but many are missing out on a key opportunity—Gift Aid.

Gift Aid allows clubs to claim an extra 25p for every £1 donated at no additional cost to the donor. However, many clubs are not fully utilising Gift Aid because they are unaware of what they can claim on.

Here are three key areas where clubs could be missing out on significant Gift Aid claims:

1. Donations and Fundraising Contributions

It’s well known that Gift Aid can be claimed on direct donations, but many clubs overlook fundraising events, sponsored challenges, and one-off supporter contributions.

For example:

If a club runs a charity golf day, supporters who donate without receiving a significant benefit in return can gift aid their contributions.

Crowdfunding and JustGiving campaigns may be eligible for Gift Aid, provided donors tick the Gift Aid box and confirm they are UK taxpayers.

Clubs should ensure they have a Gift Aid declaration form for one-off and recurring donors to maximise claims.

2. Membership Fees – Are You Compliant?

Many clubs wrongly assume that Gift Aid cannot be claimed on membership fees. While this is true for standard sports club membership (as members receive a benefit), there are ways to structure fees to make them eligible:

Separate donations from membership fees: If clubs introduce a “supporters’ donation” scheme alongside standard membership, members who choose to contribute extra may be able to Gift Aid that donation.

Ensure compliance with HMRC rules: HMRC guidance states that membership subscriptions are only eligible if they provide no material benefits. Clubs should review whether their membership structure could be adjusted to make part of their income eligible.

By reviewing membership models and separating a voluntary donation element, clubs could increase their Gift Aid claims significantly.

3. Volunteer Travel Expenses – A Little-Known Opportunity

One of the most overlooked areas for Gift Aid claims is volunteer travel expenses.

Many clubs rely on volunteers, and some reimburse them for travel costs. What’s often missed is that if a volunteer chooses not to claim their travel expenses, they can instead “donate” them back to the club – and the club can claim Gift Aid on that amount.

For example:

A coach or referee travels 50 miles for a match and is entitled to 45p per mile (£22.50).

If they waive the expense claim and donate it back to the club, the club can claim Gift Aid on that donation, turning a £22.50 expense into a £28.12 total benefit (£22.50 + 25% Gift Aid).

This is a win-win for clubs and volunteers who want to support their organisations financially.

For more information, HMRC provides guidance on this process here.

Next Steps: Is Your Club Maximising Gift Aid?

To ensure your club is making the most of Gift Aid:

✅ Review your donation processes – Are you capturing Gift Aid on fundraising?

✅ Assess your membership structure – Could part of your income be eligible for Gift Aid?

✅ Educate volunteers about travel expenses – Encourage volunteers to consider waiving claims in exchange for a Gift Aid donation.

✅ Keep accurate Gift Aid records – Ensure all claims meet HMRC compliance.

By implementing these strategies, clubs could unlock thousands of pounds in extra funding each year. Don’t leave money on the table—start maximising Gift Aid today!

How Club Development Solutions Can Help

Understanding and maximising Gift Aid can be complex, but Club Development Solutions can help clubs navigate the process, ensure compliance, and unlock new revenue streams. From reviewing membership models to setting up effective Gift Aid donation schemes, we work with clubs to ensure they are making the most of every available funding opportunity. If your club wants to increase its income through Gift Aid, get in touch to see how we can help.