As the school year starts … so does the need for supplies, books, computers, and field trips. Working in an office I can attest to the multiple fundraising ideas that parent (begrudgingly and some good aunts, uncles, grandparents and friends) bring in for their beloved school aged kiddo. While I feel there is a need to teach kids how to fundraise for something that is important to them…I know of a great option for schools!
You pay state taxes, like it or not. Do you know where your money goes? I dunno…maybe I paid for part of that side walk someone just spit on…maybe it went to the governor’s office and they are eating lunch with it…who knows. Well, you can change that.
In Arizona, you can donate your money to a school and even a teacher of your choice. The funds can be applied to extracurricular activities or character building programs. I understand it’s not computers or pencils or the basics but just think if your teacher doesn’t have to come up with it out of pocket, then those fundraising dollars that would have to go to a zoo trip could then be spent on a computer lab or music room or art supplies.
You do not have to have a child or even donate to the school in your neighborhood, you choose what school and if you want it to go to a certain teacher. You can donate $200 filing single, head of household or married filing separately and $400 when filing married filing jointly. You do not have to donate all to one school or all at the same time, you can do it as you see fit. Contact your school for where to locate their donation form.
The catch here is that you have to make your donation up front and then wait for your tax refund to recoup the cost. I would try to work this out with your tax professional so that you pay less out of your check every month so that you can do this if you are unable to comfortably front the cash. You must get it registered as paid by December 31 so be careful that some schools close for Christmas break and won’t be able to fill out the necessary documentation. I.E. don’t wait till last minute. Also you must have a tax liability of at least $100 for the year.
Check here to see if your school qualifies to be in the program
Disclaimer: I am not a tax professional…just a blogger who heard of a fabulous tax credit. Contact a tax professional for details.
Images from:
http://www.mpsaz.org/zaharis/info/eca/
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1 comments:
So true, great post! Thanks!!
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