Tax Credit Donation FAQs

What is a tax credit?
A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the actual tax owed. For example, if you owe $800 in state income taxes and you donate $400 to a public school for extracurricular activities, you may subtract the $400 from your tax bill and pay the state just $400.

What is an extracurricular activity?
Extracurricular activity means any optional, noncredit educational or recreational activity that supplements the education program of the school. Activities such as sports, visual and performing arts, special programs, character building, field trips, clubs, outdoor education, gifted programs or classroom enrichment programs can be funded with tax credit money.

Who is eligible?
This tax credit is available to all individual Arizona taxpayers whether they have children in school or not. An individual can contribute and receive a tax credit for any amount up to $200, or a couple filing jointly may contribute up to $400.

Does all of my money go to extracurricular activities?
Yes, 100 percent of your donation goes directly to the schools for extracurricular activities that benefit students by enriching campus life and learning. None of the money is used for overhead.

May I designate where I want my money to go?
Yes, you may say where you want your donation to go. If you have a child in school, you may donate to the activity in which he or she participates.

Do I have to donate the full $200 or $400?
No, you may donate up to your $200 or $400 limit in installments during the calendar year or donate it at one time. Any individual who pays Arizona State income tax can donate; you do not need to live in the Mesa Public Schools district.

How can I make a contribution?
Tax Credit Form: Download the Tax Credit form in Adobe Acrobat format. Print the form, and mail it to the address listed on the form.

Your tax credit receipt will be mailed to you. If you have questions regarding your tax credit donation, please call (602) 452-4700 ext 4712.

Drop-off Locations and Deadlines
3409 W. Whitton Ave,
Phoenix, AZ 85017
Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 31
(Closed Dec. 25)