Senator Gordner Urges Volunteer Firefighters, EMS to Apply For Tax Credits

HARRISBURG – State Sen. John R. Gordner (R-27) is urging eligible volunteer firefighters and emergency services personnel to apply for a personal income tax credit of up to $100 this year.

Act 66 of 2008 created the Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Tax Credit program, giving active members of volunteer fire, ambulance and rescue organizations a one-time credit of up to $100 against their state tax liability in 2008. The amount of the tax credit is based on the number of months the volunteer was a member during the 2008 calendar year.

Eligible volunteers must complete the PA-40 Schedule OC-V tax form, available on the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue's website at www.revenue.state.pa.us or by calling 1-800-362-2050. The form must be filed when the individual files his or her state income taxes before the state's April 15, 2009 deadline. The Senator has also added a link to the form on his website at www.senatorgordner.com

"Our volunteer first responders deserve our deepest respect and admiration for risking their safety to defend our lives and property, and I salute their service in protecting our communities," Gordner said. "I would urge eligible first responders to contact the Department of Revenue to receive the necessary tax forms to receive this credit as soon as possible."

To determine eligibility for the tax credit, the State Fire Commissioner and EMS Director prepared a point system based on response rates, attendance, sleep-in and standby times, memberships and certifications. The complete point system is available online at the State Fire Commissioner and EMS Director's website at www.osfc.state.pa.us