Our Stories Are Our State: Writing Arizona’s Future Through Local Giving
Arizona’s story has always been written by its people — by the growers, the builders, the small business owners and the changemakers who call this state home.
When you give to Local First Arizona, you’re not just donating. You’re investing in the stories that make Arizona strong — stories of opportunity, resilience and community.
And the best part? The next one is waiting for you to write it.
As you close out the year and begin preparing for tax season, consider utilizing one of these giving strategies to make a larger impact for Arizona at lower personal financial cost. There are many philanthropic giving strategies that offer flexibility, preserve wealth and direct your funds where it matters most.
Qualified Charitable Contributions (QCO) - Arizona allows you to apply dollar-for-dollar credit towards your state taxes when you donate to a QCO up to $495 for single filers or $987 for married couples filing jointly. The credit is unique in that it empowers taxpayers to direct tax dollars to charities whose services they believe provide the most value to their local communities, rather than going directly to the state for distribution to other services.
Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD) - A tax-efficient way for those 70 ½ or older to donate from their IRA, while also counting towards your annual Required Minimum Distribution.
Donor Advised Funds (DAF) - A tax-advantaged investment account, similar to a 401(k) for retirement or an HAS for healthcare. Deposit cash and non-cash assets to receive immediate tax deductions, invest the funds and recommend grants to nonprofits anytime. Your DAF provider can make a grant online in just minutes.
Ready to get more from your giving?
To claim the AZ credit on your 2025 return, make a charitable donation to Local First Arizona Foundation before April 15, 2026. When you file your tax return, include Arizona Form 321 and use Local First Arizona’s QCO code: 22141.
To give from your DAF or IRA, have your fund administrator send a contribution to:
Local First Arizona Foundation
407 E Roosevelt St
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Tax ID (EIN): 26-1657951
To learn more, visit www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-contributions.
Before the year ends, talk to your trusted advisors about these tax-savvy giving strategies and the evolving tax landscape. Search the Local First Business Directory to find attorneys, accountants, financial planners and other wealth management professionals for an in depth overview of these philanthropic strategies and more.