Frequently Asked Questions
Charities
Who owns The Closet?
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, The Closet has no owners. It was formed in 1974 by a handful of churches to assist low-income families by selling used clothing at nominal prices, and The Closet’s operations are still overseen by its faith-based member congregations.
To which organization are you affiliated?
The Closet is a stand-alone charity. It is not affiliated with or controlled by any other organization.
Whom does The Closet financially support?
The Closet supports multiple non-profit organizations.
How does a non-profit organization request a grant from The Closet?
Each quarter The Closet distributes surplus revenues to worthy charities in Northern Virginia (Fairfax and Loudoun Counties). A non-profit organization may submit a grant request to The Closet following the application guidelines on this website page: GRANTS
How do I apply for a college scholarship from The Closet?
The Closet funds post-secondary school scholarships for high school graduates at Dominion High School, Herndon High School, Mountain View High School, Park View High School, South Lakes High School, and Westfield High School. The application and selection process is managed by the high schools and students should contact career counselors at the applicable high schools for the application.
Merchandise Donations
When are donations accepted?
See our website HOME page or our DONATE page for current donation hours.
Do you offer estate or large item pick-up services?
Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to provide pick-up services for donated items.
Do you offer a tax receipt for my donations?
The Closet provides a tax receipt for your merchandise. See further information on our DONATE page.
How do I value my donations?
According to the IRS, we are not allowed to value what you have donated. The IRS Publication 561 says that donated clothing and other household goods must be “in good used condition or better.” If you claim a deduction of $500 or more for a used item that is not in good condition, the IRS states that you should get an appraisal. There are computer software programs available to help you figure the tax value of donated merchandise, and this internet site Tax Valuation Form provides some references which may be of assistance to you.
How should I prepare my donations?
Clothing must be clean, free of rips, stains and damage. We ask that you place clothing, bed linens, and table linens in large plastic bags. Please place your other donations in boxes. This enables your donated items to stay clean, dry, and secure until we finish processing them. Please wrap/secure all cords to lamps and small appliances. Please ensure that electronic devices such as computers, tablets, and phones are purged of all personal data and that all passwords are either removed or clearly provided with the device.
Do you accept cash donations?
Yes. The Closet can always put cash donations to good use. Send your check to P.O. Box 42, Herndon, VA 20172. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!
Can I make a tax-free donation from my IRA to The Closet?Yes, under certain conditions. This is known as a qualified charitable distribution (QCD). You must be 70½ or older. You can to transfer up to $105,000 each year to qualified charities. The Closet of the Greater Herndon Area, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization and is a qualified charity. Your financial institution holding your IRA must directly transfer your desired donation to:
The Closet of the Greater Herndon Area, Inc. at P.O. Box 42, Herndon, VA 20172.
For more information contact your tax or financial advisor.
Shopping
Where are you located and what are your hours?
We are located at 845 Station Street, Herndon, VA 20170. See our HOME page for our current hours.
Can I take public transportation to The Closet?
Several Fairfax Connector buses run close to The Closet. To plan your specific trip, you can go to the Metro trip planner at http://www.wmata.com.
When is your voucher desk open?
See the HOME page or the Voucher Program page for current voucher hours.
How do you determine your prices?
Our items are priced according to quality, size, and condition.
Do you barter?
No. The prices of our items are fixed and non-negotiable. If an item does not sell, we take it off the floor and donate it to another community in need.