With tax season underway, Arizona residents have a unique opportunity to take control of their tax dollars while making a positive impact on the community. Through our state’s charitable tax credit program, taxpayers can redirect a portion of their state income tax to support organizations that help children and families in need.
One of the most impactful ways to use this credit is by donating to organizations like The Saguaros, a longstanding East Valley nonprofit committed to improving the lives of Arizona’s youth.
The Arizona tax credit program allows individuals to contribute to qualified charitable organizations and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit, reducing their state tax liability or increasing their refund.
For the 2024 tax year, taxpayers can donate up to $470 individually or $938 as a couple to a Qualifying Charitable Organization — at no additional cost to them. For 2025, these limits increase to $495 for single filers and $987 for married couples filing jointly.
In addition to contributing to a QCO, you also can take advantage of tax credit donations to public schools and qualifying foster care organizations. Visit azdor.gov/tax-credits for details.
The Saguaros has been serving Arizona for decades, raising millions of dollars through signature fundraisers Niteflite and the Olympiad, and providing critical funding for established nonprofits that support local children.
Last year, the organization donated nearly $900,000 to 29 Arizona nonprofits focused on helping children, including Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale, Boys Hope Girls Hope of Arizona, Ability 360, Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels, AZ Foster Alliance, AZ LEOS, Care Fund, Chicanos Por La Causa, Children’s Cancer Network, Crowns of Courage, Desert Voices, Future for Kids, Health World Education (Horsense), Homeless Youth Connection, Horses Help, ICAN, Junior Achievement, Lions Camp Tatiyee, Love Up Foundation, Miracle League of Arizona, National Historical Fire Foundation, New Pathways for Youth, New Way Academy, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Playworks Education Energized, Ryan House, Saving Amy and Southwest PGA Foundation.
Unlike a traditional charitable donation, a tax credit contribution lets taxpayers direct where their money goes. It’s important to note the donation is not just a deduction — it’s a dollar-for-dollar credit, so it costs you nothing to ensure your tax dollars make an immediate difference in your own community.
Giving to organizations to organizations like The Saguaros is an easy, meaningful way to support many nonprofits with a single donation. With just a few clicks, taxpayers can help transform lives and invest in a brighter future for Arizona’s children while reducing their tax burden.
Editor’s note: Clayton Wolfe is foundation treasurer for The Saguaros and a Realtor at Resident Real Estate. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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