Frequently Asked Questions

Questions? We’ve got answers! Scroll down for details about the Charro AZ Tax Credit program.

HOw Does it work?

The tax credit is available regardless of whether you itemize your taxes. Use Arizona Form 321, “Credit for Contributions to Qualifying Charitable Organizations” to claim your tax credit.

The Charro Arizona Tax Credit program gives you the opportunity to contribute tax dollars to qualified non-profit organizations actively working to address the issues you care about – for example foster care support, mental health, youth development, and many more.

How? The state of Arizona offers multiple state tax credits that allow taxpayers like you to make donations to qualifying charities and public schools, reducing your Arizona state tax liability dollar-for-dollar.

Only individual taxpayers can donate to the Charro AZ Tax Credit Program. Corporations, partnerships, and foundations do not qualify. Single individuals may donate up to $470 to Qualifying Charitable Organizations (QCO) and up to $587 to Qualifying Foster Care Charitable Organizations (QFCO). Married and filing jointly may donate up to $938 to QCOs and up to $1,173 to QFCO.

Additionally, Arizona offers tax credits for donations to public schools. Single individuals may donate up to $200 and those who are married and filing jointly may donate up to $400.

Your donations go to Scottsdale public schools and the Qualified Charitable Organizations and Qualifying Foster Care Charitable Organizations that are certified by the state of Arizona. Donations to non-certified charities do not qualify for this tax credit.

The state of Arizona allows you to make donations up until April 15 to claim the tax credit for the previous calendar year. However, IRS deadlines are different, stating that for contributions to be deductible on federal tax returns, contributions must be made “before the close of your tax year” ( when you file your taxes). Be sure to take both timelines into account when planning your charitable contributions and always consult with your tax advisor.

How can i control where my tax dollars go in Arizona?

The Arizona Charitable Tax Credit allows taxpayers to control where part of their tax dollars go by donating to specific charitable organizations and public schools, reducing their tax bill by the same amount.

Tax credits reduce the amount you owe the state on a dollar-for-dollar basis, whereas tax deductions reduce your taxable income. For instance, if you utilize the Charro AZ Tax Credit Program as a single filer and donate $470 to a QCO and $587 to a QFCO and $200 to a Scottsdale public school, your state tax liability is reduced by $1,257 in credits.

If you donate to a non-certified charity, you won’t qualify for the tax credit. The donation could be deducted from your taxable income, but the tax savings would likely be smaller than if you took the dollar-for-dollar credit.

Why the scottsdale charros?

Since 1961, the Scottsdale Charros have been deeply embedded in the Scottsdale community, supporting youth, schools, and charitable organizations. By donating to the Charro AZ Tax Credit Program, you’re contributing to a trusted group with deep connections in the community. We work closely with city leaders, schools, businesses, and law enforcement to ensure your donation addresses the most urgent needs.

We select charities that align with our mission to promote youth, education, sports, and Western heritage, ensuring that your contributions make a meaningful difference. We have long-standing relationships with our selected charities. We meet frequently with the charities we support, ensuring your donations are making an impact!

The Charros do not take a fee from your donation, so every dollar directly supports the community. The Charro AZ Tax Credit Program is one of the many ways we raise funds to support our community.

If you select “Highest Need” on the donation form, we use our connections with city leaders, schools, businesses, and law enforcement to ensure your donation will address the most urgent needs of the Scottsdale community.