Taxpayers claiming improper deductions might be subject to penalties. The IRS also plans to review transactions marketed by promoters and appraisers, who also might be subject to penalties

"We're seeing an increasing number of donations that don't pass the smell test," said IRS Commissioner Mark Everson. "Donations that are overly inflated or made with strings attached are going to receive increased scrutiny."

The IRS identified instances when taxpayers claim bigger deductions than permitted. Some of the transactions that might violate rules for deductible transfer include the donation of nondeductible partial interests in intellectual property, a promise for benefits in exchange for a charitable donation, the overvaluing of the donated intellectual property or the inadequate substantiation of the contribution.