The Arizona Military Family Relief Fund was established to assist Arizona military families with any financial crisis that may occur.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Wars have produced combat veterans who are faced with severe injuries not comparable to previous conflicts. In many cases, long-term medical care is needed, requiring families to be by the side of their military hero. Cash-strapped families must pick up the tab for travel, lodging and household expenses while their family member undergoes rehabilitation.

In the worst scenario, when military families lose a loved one in the line of duty, they are frequently faced with devastating financial hardship. Unforeseen expenses add to the stress of tremendous loss. Families suddenly have to restructure their lives and manage day-to-day bills, all while laying their hero to rest.

Military families and the issues they face is something that's near and dear to my heart.  Not only are these brave men and women fighting to keep our country safe, my dad was a 20-year retired US Navy WWII Veteran, so I know first hand the sacrifices these families make.

A donation to the Arizona Military Family Relief Fund will not only benefit our local military families, you can also claim the donation (up to $200 single filer/$400 joint filer) in a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit.

If you'd like to donate, it's simple to do.  Just download the contribution form.  Fill out the form and mail it in with your check attached and you will be sent a receipt you can use to receive your state tax credit.

Don't wait too long if you want the tax credit.  According to their website, the total donation tax credits cannot exceed 1 Million Dollars. 

You have to pay your Arizona State Taxes anyway, so why not tell them where to use the money?  Oh...and don't keep this a secret.  Please share the news!

Note:  I'm not a tax professional and you should consult your tax advisor for specific tax advice.