Georgia Chamber Partners with the Georgia HEART Campaign

In 2016, the legislature addressed Georgia’s rural healthcare crisis by adopting a state income tax credit program intended to encourage Georgians to contribute to rural and critical access hospitals. We’re proud to announce our partnership with Georgia HEART designed to increase rural hospital funding and improve healthcare access to thousands of Georgians.

Beginning on January 1, 2017, Georgia taxpayers can donate to a qualified rural hospital of their choosing, and in return, receive a state income tax credit for 70 percent of the amount of their contributions. In addition, those who itemize their deductions will be able to take a charitable income tax deduction on their federal income tax returns.

With Georgia continuing to lead the nation as the number one state for business and workforce, it is critical that Georgians have sufficient access to healthcare. The Georgia Chamber fully supports the ongoing efforts of the beneficial Georgia HEART Hospital Program.

If you’re still debating whether or not you should become a contributor, here are the top five reasons as to why you should get involved:

1 – When you donate to your local hospital, you get to decide how to spend your money, not the state of Georgia.

2 – You’ll receive a state income tax credit for 70 percent of the amount you contribute and, if you itemize deductions, a federal charitable income tax deduction.

3 – Because rural hospitals face significant financial and demographic challenges, your contribution will help to dramatically improve the hospital’s ability to better serve its patients.

4 – Hospitals that qualify for the program are required to use contributions for healthcare related expenses and must submit a five-year sustainability plan to the Department of Community Health.

5 – Within the next few years, exciting new programs and practices should be in place to help rural hospitals and your tax credit eligible contribution can help “bridge the gap.”

With these things in mind, consider donating to your participating Georgia HEART hospital to receive your 2017 tax credit. For more information on Georgia HEART or how to donate, visit www.georgiaheart.org.

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