Support Arizona military at no cost to you

April 15th, that dreaded income tax deadline, is fast approaching. If you find that you need a tax credit to help ease the strain of payments for next year, then consider the Arizona Military Family Relief Fund.

Arizona residents have an opportunity to obtain an Arizona tax credit while assisting the Arizona military service members and their families. Since March 20, 2003, Arizona has lost 123 soldiers, marines, airmen and sailors while fighting the War on Terror. This number does not include the combat veterans who have returned with severe injuries that require long-term medical care.

When our service men and women go to war, their families, friends and our entire community go with them. With the loss or injury of a combat soldier, the families of these brave men and women are frequently faced with devastating financial hardship. These families, in the middle of the loss of their loved one or needing to be by the side of their injured soldier, are forced to pay for travel and lodging in addition to their day-to-day bills.

The funds collected for this relief fund will be administered by the Arizona Department of Veteran’ Services (ADVS), which is an Arizona state agency. Your donation will directly impact the lives of our Arizona heroes and their families. State law mandates that 95 percent of the funds collected are distributed to the families in need. Five percent may cover the program’s administrative costs.

This is your opportunity to take part in an Arizona grassroots program by helping Arizona military men, women and their families while receiving a tax credit for your donation.

Arizona law allows a tax credit for cash donations made by individuals to the Military Family Relief Fund. This tax credit is your donated amount limited to a $200 donation for a single individual, $400 for married couples who file joint returns or your tax liability for the year. You will get your money back if you pay income taxes in Arizona.

Mail your donation with your name, address and the last four digits of your Social Security number to:

MFRF (Military Family Relief Fund)
AZ DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN’S SERVICES
3839 North 3rd Street Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85012

Residents can also obtain the tax credit donation form from the ADVS website or call Diane D’Angelo at 602 234-8421. All donors will be mailed a receipt for tax purposes. You can contact the Arizona Department of Revenue at (602) 255-3381.

Stefanie Campbell, EA, is the president of the Arizona Society of Enrolled Agents, tax professionals tested and licensed by the federal government.

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