Summer vacation season is coming to an end here in Arizona, even if summer temps are not leaving us. Now is a good time to take a look at two things related to the new school year: back-to-school budgets and tax credits.

I don’t have to tell any of you who are parents that kids are expensive. Don’t let the new school year expenses sneak up on you. Be sure to keep in mind school clothes or uniforms, supplies, and all those fees for the activities that keep our kids happy and productive.

As an added bonus to all residents of AZ, you can take a tax credit of up to $400 per household for fees and donations paid to the local school district. All those sports registration fees, the band trips, the school-sponsored fall break excursions can qualify you for that credit if you use the right channels and complete the paperwork to make it happen. Grandparents, friends and neighbors who perhaps do not have school-age children can also make out checks to the public school on behalf of your child and claim their own $400 tax credit, and that amount comes directly off your tax bill this year.  See this site for more info.

I hope everyone with an Arizona state income tax liability can take advantage of this opportunity to help the children in their local community. If you do not have a child to support directly, you can direct your funds to your favorite sport or activity to give that whole group a boost. Your neighborhood school office will be happy to assist you in making it happen!

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