FEDERAL ELECTION COMMISSION

Supporting Federal Candidates: A Guide For Citizens

Discounts on Food and Drink

If you are in the business of selling food and beverages, your business may offer a discount to candidates and party committees without making a contribution, even if your business is incorporated. The discount price must at least equal the cost of the items. The value of the discount - the difference between the normal charge and the amount paid by the committee - must, however, remain within certain limits. The limit for a discount to a candidate is $1,000 per election; the limit for a political party is $2,000 per year. Once the limits are exceeded, the excess amount is a contribution. An incorporated business may not exceed the limits since contributions from corporations are prohibited.

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