It may seem too early to think about tax season, but it is always a good time to help our schools. Individuals who support public or private schools of their choice with donations before Dec. 31 can receive dollar-for-dollar tax credits. It is a win-win situation for your pocketbooks and schools during these difficult economic times.
The Arizona Department of Revenue describes the school tax credits in full detail on their website www.azdor.gov, so I will highlight the main things you need to know to get started.
There are several options for individuals to receive a tax credit: make a contribution or pay fees to a public school to support extracurricular activities or character education programs; or donate to a qualified school tuition organization for private school scholarships.
Statute defines a character education program as one that includes at least six of the following traits: truthfulness, responsibility, compassion, diligence, sincerity, trustworthiness, respect, attentiveness, obedience, orderliness, forgiveness and virtue.
Public and charter schools from kindergarten to 12th grade are eligible for a credit up to $200 ($400 for a couple). To qualify, you must make cash contributions. This could be for your own child, but you don't have to have a child there to donate. Extracurricular activities are any educational or recreational activities that supplement the schools educational program and could include band or sports uniforms and scientific equipment.
If you decide to donate to a tuition organization, you can do so with cash towards a scholarship for a private school. The credit matches the amount donated but cannot exceed $500 for an individual or $1,000 for married taxpayers. The only limitation of this credit is that it many not be for money directly benefiting your dependent.
Contributing for school tax credits does not have to be a partisan issue. Whether you support school choice, want to help a private school or a public school, it doesn't matter. This is your chance to make a difference. You can help ease the costs at a school suffering from budget cuts or help a child go to a school that better meets his or her needs. This isn't about politics; it's about helping our schools and communities.
Take a look at www.azdor.gov to get more information. I hope you take advantage of this opportunity to support your schools and make a contribution before Dec. 31.
Sen. Al Melvin, District 26
