The families of the disabled suffer in all manner of ways. One of the most direct is financial. A study by AARP shows that families typically spend as much as $7,000 each year while caring for a disabled relative.
Up To $1,000 Tax Credit
A new bill under consideration in Arizona would give some relief to the families of the disabled. The Arizona House just passed a bill that would provide them tax credits. A person filing individually could claim up to $500. A married couple would be eligible for twice that amount.
Let Your Senator Know If You Support This Bill
The bill is now under consideration in the Arizona Senate. If you support giving financial assistance to those families taking care of a disabled relative, contact your State Senator and let him or her know.
A Draft Message You Can Send
AARP has drafted a helpful email message that you can personalize and send.
It is as follows:
Dear [Your Senator],
Under SB 1172 Arizona caregiving families would be able to apply for a grant, not greater than $1,000, to partially cover an expense that will allow an older relative to remain with family, as opposed to more costly care in a nursing home or assisted living facility. Only taxpayers with Arizona adjusted gross income less than $75,000 (single) or $150,000 (joint filers) would qualify for the credit.
That’s why I urge you to support SB 1172 – Family Caregivers; Pilot; Grant Program to help make family caregivers’ big responsibilities a little bit easier by reducing the financial strain and help them continue caregiving longer.
Please support SB 1172 to help Arizona families continue to care for their older relatives as long as they possibly can.
