Empowerment Zone Tax Credits

A powerful federal incentive designed to strengthen underserved communities by rewarding businesses that hire, invest, and operate within designated zones.

What the Empowerment Zone Credit Is

The Empowerment Zone Employment Credit is a federal tax incentive available to businesses located within designated Empowerment Zones. It provides a valuable wage-based credit for eligible employees, helping companies reduce tax liability while contributing to economic development in their local communities.

Permanent Federal Tax Credit Since 1981

The R&D Tax credit has been part of U.S. tax law since 1981 and is used annually by companies across dozens of industries. It is a standard, strategic benefit for businesses committed to continuous improvement and innovation.

Location-Based Incentive

A credit available to businesses operating within federally designated Empowerment Zones.

Wage-Based Benefits

Businesses may qualify for a credit based on wages paid to eligible employees who live and work within the zone.

Immediate Tax Relief

A straightforward way to reduce taxes and reinvest in operations, hiring, and growth.

Who Qualifies:

  • Businesses located in designated Empowerment Zones

  • Companies employing individuals who live within the zone

  • Retail, service, industrial, professional, and mixed-use businesses

  • Businesses with full-time or part-time eligible employees

  • Organizations investing in local hiring and community growth

Benefits:

  • Reduce your federal tax liability

  • Strengthen local hiring and workforce development

  • Leverage a wage-based credit for eligible employees

  • Support investment in underserved communities

  • Create a competitive financial advantage for zone-based businesses

How It Works

Eligibility Review

Determine whether your business location falls within a designated zone.

Employee Qualification

Identify employees who live and work within the zone.

Credit Calculation

Calculate eligible wages to determine total credit benefit.

Final Report

Provide organized documentation your CPA can apply during tax preparation.

Examples

Summary Scenarios:

Small retail business reducing taxable income through eligible employee wages

Service company leveraging multiple qualifying employees to capture annual savings

Manufacturing facility increasing hiring while receiving significant wage-based benefits

Professional firm operating in the zone and capturing credits annually

Your Empowerment Zone Benefit Starts Here

Identify eligibility, capture your tax credit, and reinvest in your business and community.

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