WHY PARTICIPATE?
By participating in the NAP and donating to Fit & Food Connection, you not only leverage your tax dollars for a meaningful cause but also enable significant expansions in community wellness initiatives. Your contributions will directly support the enhancement and expansion of our programs, including essential educational and fitness activities that promote health and well-being for the entirety of the St. Louis community. Additionally, your donations help maintain and grow our community garden, a vital project that provides fresh produce and serves as a learning platform for sustainable practices. The tax credits you receive in return reduce your state tax liability, making this a financially advantageous way to contribute to substantial community improvement. This strategic use of your tax dollars amplifies the reach and effectiveness of Fit & Food Connection, turning typical tax payments into active support for community health and resilience.
HOW IT WORKS
*DISCLAIMER: The above graphic illustrates the potential overall savings on both federal and state levels for a donor in the 38% federal tax bracket. By considering the federal tax bracket, the example shows the full scope of tax benefits, including how the donation reduces taxable income federally, even though the NAP tax credits directly reduce only the state tax. The example also assumes that state taxes are not deductible on federal returns due to recent tax legislation limiting such deductions for many individuals. Additionally, it is assumed that federal taxes are not deductible on state tax returns. These calculations also presume that an individual is eligible to itemize deductions under the new tax laws. Please note, this is just an example to show potential savings for someone in this tax bracket who donates and receives NAP tax credits. This should not be taken as specific tax advice. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, please consult with a tax advisor or accountant to see how tax credits might benefit you.
STEPS TO APPLY
1. Determine your eligibility.
2. Make a minimum contribution of $1,000 to Fit & Food Connection. Be sure to indicate your desire to apply for tax credits on your donation (check or online from memo line). You will then receive an acknowledgement and brief instructions on how to fill out the NAP tax credit application.
2. Complete the NAP tax credit application, include proof of donation and make sure the form is notarized.
3. Return completed NAP tax credit application to Fit & Food Connection and we will submit it to the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
4. After processing, which may take up to 4-6 weeks, the Missouri Department of Economic Development will send Fit & Food a certification letter and you will then receive directions on how to redeem your tax credits.
If you would like to speak directly with a member of our staff regarding the NAP, please email gcole@fitandfoodconnection.org
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What is the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP)?The Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) is designed to encourage private sector participation in the revitalization of low-income communities. Through this program, businesses and individuals with business income can receive tax credits in exchange for making eligible contributions to approved nonprofit organizations that serve these communities.
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Who qualifies to participate in the NAP?Eligibility to participate in the NAP typically includes individuals, corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, trusts, and other entities that owe state income taxes. Contributors must donate to a qualified nonprofit organization that has been approved to participate in the NAP.
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What types of contributions qualify for NAP tax credits?Qualifying contributions can include cash, publicly traded stocks, and in-kind donations needed to carry out the project, as specified by the program guidelines. Each state may have specific rules about what constitutes a qualifying contribution, so it's important to consult the state's NAP guidelines or a tax professional.
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How much in tax credits can I receive for my contribution under Missouri's NAP?Missouri offers tax credits equal to 50% of the donated amount. These credits are in addition to the standard federal and state tax deductions for charitable contributions.
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Are there limits to how much I can contribute or claim as a tax credit under Missouri's NAP?Yes, there are limits on the amount of tax credits available statewide each year. Individual projects also have specific credit allocations. It’s important to confirm the available credits for a given project before making a contribution.
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What is the process for receiving NAP tax credits after making a contribution?After making an eligible contribution to a qualified nonprofit (Fit & Food Connection), you must submit proof of your donation to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, along with a notarized tax credit application. The agency will then process your submission and upon approval, you will receive a tax credit certificate that you can apply against your Missouri state taxes.
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Can NAP tax credits be carried forward if they exceed my tax liability for the year in Missouri?Yes, in Missouri, if your NAP tax credits exceed your tax liability, you can carry forward the unused portion for up to five subsequent tax years.
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What happens if my NAP tax credits exceed my Missouri taxes owed?Any tax credits that exceed your tax liability can be carried forward to offset future tax liabilities for up to five years.
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Where can I get more information about Missouri's Neighborhood Assistance Program?For more detailed information about Missouri’s NAP, including application forms and guidelines, visit the Missouri Department of Economic Development’s website or consult with a tax advisor who is familiar with Missouri-specific tax incentive programs.