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Starting next year, volunteer firefighters and EMTs in Illinois will have access to a new financial incentive. The state is introducing a $500 non-refundable income tax credit for eligible emergency volunteers. The credit aims to help cover the costs of training and equipment that these dedicated individuals incur while serving their communities.

To qualify for the income tax credit, individuals must meet certain criteria. First and foremost, they must have served as a volunteer emergency worker for at least nine months during the taxable year. Additionally, they should not have received compensation exceeding $5,000 for their services as a volunteer emergency worker during the same period.

In order to apply for the tax credit, volunteers must be included on a list provided by their local fire department, district, or office to the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) by January 12. This list will serve as confirmation that the volunteer has met the aforementioned qualifications. Only the first 10,000 qualified applicants will be considered, so it is crucial for volunteers to ensure their names are on the list within their respective organizations.

The application process will open in February, and interested volunteers can find more information and access the online application on the Illinois Department of Revenue's website.

This new income tax credit is a testament to the state's recognition of the invaluable contributions made by volunteer emergency workers. These individuals selflessly dedicate their time and energy to keeping their communities safe, often at great personal expense. By providing financial assistance for training and equipment, Illinois hopes to alleviate some of the burden faced by these volunteers and enable them to continue their vital work.

According to the Illinois State Fire Marshal, "This income tax credit is a significant step in supporting our volunteer emergency workers. It recognizes their commitment and helps ensure they have the resources they need to effectively serve and protect our communities."

The introduction of this income tax credit reflects a growing trend across the country to acknowledge and support the efforts of volunteer emergency workers. Many states are implementing similar initiatives to provide financial relief and recognition for these dedicated individuals. By offering this tax credit, Illinois joins a growing list of states that value and appreciate the vital role played by volunteer emergency workers in ensuring public safety.

As the application process opens in February, eligible volunteers are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and apply for the income tax credit. It serves as a small token of appreciation for their selfless service and a way to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with their important role in safeguarding their communities.

To learn more, click on this link: https://senatorfowler.com/2023/12/27/volunteer-emergency-worker-income-tax-credit/