A variety of opinions.

We have been hired to play a benefit. Being a benefit, I wish to donate my time/portion of the fee. Do I just do this without mentioning it or do I inform the other members I am doing so?

Tell your band.

2x

X3

Tell your band that WE are donating a portion since it’s a benefit and take the write off!

Wouldn't it be easier to keep your typical fee or charge the same and then give personally? My thinking is that charging different people or venues different rates could cause problems.

Stepson rents party/event tents and sometimes a benefit gig will come up. He gives all that are benefits a discount, I think its 15% off.

In your situation, you need to approach the band imo, unless you just donate from your own pocket.

When it comes to giving/donating to something or someone in my opinion that is your business as an individual which I am or as a group! I sometimes do jobs for free when I understand their situation and give discounts for the same reason. That’s why I am self employed. I can make decisions and I don’t have to answer to anyone!

According to your original post, the band has been hired so sounds like a contract is already in place for the band to get paid. If you want to donate your share, I see nothing wrong with sharing that fact with the other members of the band. Some of them may feel the same way but I would not presume that. Take your cut then donate it as you wish.
My opinion, YMMV

Take you part of the fee and donate what amount you wish to give .And I would not dwell on it but I would make it known that you made a donation to the organization .

I agree talk with your band

easier to give it as a discount than take it and then pay it back

if you take it then pay it back you have to account for it in your taxes

every time you handle money the tax man wants his cut , no handle the money then less to account for.

it might be as simple as equipment costs and each member cost , if a member chooses to donate half or all their amount than that % off the bill

You cannot deduct volunteer time.

If your looking for opinions.... you've come to the right place ..lol

Appreciate the replies.

Thanks folks.

If it is volunteer time towards a community event or benefit for a community, then it is tax deductible under the "charity" exemption on your tax filing.
Ps. it's not your time, but your milage and any special clothing or necessary equipment purchased for that specific purpose. Any CPA can guide you correctly.

Charge the full price, then donate. You need to be valued fully. And otherwise it does not count as a donation.

Tell band mates and let them do as they choose. Nobody likes to hear that WE are supporting X cause.

what willy said

About to go on but took a few photos on the classics on display.

Here is one for our LE trappers.