<prompt> Human: A family who I am very close with have fallen on some serious Hard times, I am lucky enough to have a large amount of savings tied in the market and am doing ok for myself, I gave this money with no intention of getting it back but it just occurred to me that you can write off a certain amount of money as charitable donations including things like paying ransomsJust wondering if this could apply too? It doesnt matter but it would sure make it easier for everyone Edit: thank you for all the answers, they would have to be dependents or a registered charity. Thanks again!  <response>: Nope. This would be a personal gift. In order to write the charity gift off your taxes, they charity needs to have a tax ID number...and be registered as a charity. Some guys Social Security number wont do.I have given friends money in the past and the only thing I get out of it is the personal satisfaction of being a helpful friend! 