Most people donate money and time to the less fortunate and they are eligible for a tax credit for that donation. The 15 percent of the first $200 of donations is called a direct tax credit. In general, most taxpayers receive this amount if their adjusted gross income is under $100,000.

There are rules that can allow some taxpayers to get a more generous credit, which we call the non-expensing provision. This is a gift of up to $500 a year per person and it is allowed to anyone with an adjusted gross income under $250,000.

The federal government gives these credits to people who donate money to a qualified charity such as one that helps the poor, homeless, elderly, blind and handicapped, etc. Another type of Arizona charitable tax credit is the state tax credit. Some states, such as Arizona, give state tax credits for donations made to charities.

The credit ranges between 0 and 10 percent. You will get the larger number if your state has higher state tax rates. Other states, like Connecticut, give no tax credit for donations.

How can I get a tax credit for my donation to a charity? One way to get a tax credit is to contribute to your favorite charity. Before you do that, you should check to make sure that the charity meets certain requirements.