Small Town News

Times running out: direct your state tax dollars to schools of your choice

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Arizona taxpayers can send donations to local schools and take advantage of the school tax credit until December 31st.

The tax credit is better than a deduction. Instead of lowering the amount of income you pay tax on, it lowers the actual tax owed.

The credit works like this: contributions made before December 31 st to qualifying school programs will reduce 2009 tax owed by the same amount within limits.

The limit of the credit is up to $200 for a single taxpayer or $400 for a married couple filling jointly.

Qualifying programs include extracurricular activities or character education programs at public schools.

The credit reduces the amount of taxes due and but if no taxes are due it can be carried forward up to five years.

Schools all along the Copper Corridor are accepting contributions. Mammoth-San Manuel, Hayden-Winkelman, Oracle, Ray, and Superior school districts, for example, are taking contributions towards the 2009 credit. Sierra Oaks Community School is also accepting contributions.

Jeff Gregorich, Hayden-Winkelman superintendent, said that checks can be made out to the school district. "Just make sure to write what clubs you would like to support," he said.

Checks dated and postmarked by

December 31 st will count towards the 2009 credit. Checks may be made out and sent directly to schools or to district offices depending on the district.

Contributions to schools in the Mammoth-San Manuel, Hayden-Winkelman, Oracle, and Ray districts should be made out and sent to the district. Contributions in the Superior district can made out and sent to individual schools or to the district. Contributions can be mailed directly to Sierra Oaks School.

Oracle School District also has a tax credit form with additional information on their website.

Contributions can be designated to go to specific schools and activities or to go to the program with the greatest need. Send checks with a note saying what activity you'd like to support. Contact schools or district offices, check a phone book, or visit district website? to find mailing addresses and to learn more:



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