Giving with Impact: Making the Most of Your Arizona Tax Credit 

As the year draws to a close, I always find myself reflecting on the work we do here at Advance, and all the moments where compassion and generosity have been able to change a life. Working alongside my wonderful coworkers, I have the privilege of seeing the ripple effects of support that our donors make possible year after year. From families in Central and South America gaining access to essential resources, all the way to local communities gaining tools and education that create long-term stability here in Arizona. One of the most meaningful ways I’ve noticed that donors can make this work possible, especially at year-end, is through the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. It’s a simple, high-impact way for Arizonans to give back while also receiving a substantial benefit of their own at tax time. 

The Arizona Department of Revenue offers such an amazing incentive for taxpayers to help nonprofits like Advance: a dollar-for-dollar state income tax credit for donations to Qualifying Charitable Organizations (QCOs), and Advance Community is proud to be one of them! For the 2025 tax year, the maximum credit is $495 for single filers and $987 for married couples filing jointly. This isn’t a deduction; it’s a true credit, meaning every dollar you give reduces the amount of state tax you owe by the same amount, up to the limit. Even better, Arizona allows donations made up until April 15 of the following year to be applied to the prior year’s taxes, giving donors extra time to plan and participate. To claim the credit, you simply complete Arizona Form 321 and include Advance Community’s QCO code, so your contribution is properly recorded. More Info Here 

One of the things I appreciate most about this credit is its accessibility. Donors can give in whatever way feels easiest or most natural to them. Many supporters choose to send a check by mail, especially if they like keeping physical records or prefer avoiding online transactions. Others give online via credit card, where they can also choose to set up monthly recurring donations, which is a great way to spread out the impact while still qualifying for the full credit amount. We also accept ACH and electronic bank transfers, which are quick, secure, and often come with lower processing fees. And because the state allows gifts made by April 15 to count toward the prior tax year, some donors split their giving between December and early spring. No matter which method you choose, we’ll send you a tax receipt with our QCO code (22188) so filing is simple and straightforward. 

Beyond the practical benefits, these tax-credit gifts deepen the impact of our work every day. They help provide stable funding for programs that focus on sustainable development, community health, and long-term empowerment here in Arizona. With the help of donors participating in the tax credit each year, these contributions form a reliable foundation allowing us to plan ahead, build new partnerships, and act quickly when immediate needs arise. In many cases, tax-credit gifts are the reason we can respond to challenges without hesitation and help improve the lives of people who need it most. 

Since starting at Advance back in 2023, year-end giving has become one of my favorite parts of working here. There’s something meaningful about taking a moment at the end of the year to acknowledge what we’ve learned, the lives we’ve touched, and the work still ahead. When I read the stories from our programs or hear stories from my coworkers about the families who have been impacted by our work, I’m reminded that generosity isn’t just financial; it’s a shared belief in the possibility of something better. The Arizona Charitable Tax Credit makes it easier for more households to participate in that belief, without increasing their financial burden. 

As December approaches, I hope you’ll consider supporting Advance Community through the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. Whether you donate by check, online, through your bank, or in small monthly amounts, your gift becomes part of something much bigger by changing lives, strengthening communities, and helping us carry this mission forward with confidence and compassion. Thank you for making this work possible and for standing with us in building pathways to provide opportunity and hope.

Our Monthly Staff Blog Series features stories and insights from our team at Advance Community, inspired by the work they do every day.

This month’s blog was written by Emma White, Development Coordinator. Click here to support the work of Emma and the Development team.