People who contribute in 2010 to charities providing earthquake relief in Haiti can take a tax deduction for the contribution on their 2009 tax return instead of their 2010 return. This means you can receive an immediate tax benefit, rather than having to wait until you file next year’s return.
Note that only cash contributions made to these charities after Jan. 11, 2010, and before March 1, 2010, are eligible and the contributions must be made specifically for the relief of victims in areas affected by the Jan. 12 earthquake in Haiti.
You may deduct these contributions on either your 2009 or 2010 returns, but not both.
Source: www.irs.gov