Arizona Motion Picture Program Tax Incentives

The sun sets over the Arizona desert

In Arizona, the Motion Picture Production Program offers a tiered tax credit for post-production expenses which include editing, sound mixing, visual effects (VFX), and related services. Here are the key details:

  1. Tiered Tax Credit:

    • 15% credit for productions spending up to $10 million.

    • 17.5% credit for expenditures between $10 million and $35 million.

    • 20% credit for spending over $35 million.

    • An additional 2.5% can be added for hiring Arizona residents.

  2. Eligibility for Post-Production:

    • The tax credit extends to eligible post-production activities conducted within the state.

    • These activities include editing, sound mixing, and visual effects (VFX).

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The minimum spending requirement for post-production-only projects is $50,000.

  • For feature projects, the minimum spend requirement is $200,000.

  • The program caps at $75 million annually starting in 2023, increasing to $125 million by 2025.

Application Process:

  • Companies must apply for the credit through the Arizona Commerce Authority.

  • The application should be submitted before starting principal photography and includes a detailed process involving the submission of various documents to demonstrate eligibility and planned expenditures.

For more information or to begin the application process, productions should contact the Arizona Commerce Authority:

Like with any tax incentive, it's crucial to consult with a tax advisor to ensure compliance with the latest regulations and to understand how these incentives could specifically benefit a project in Arizona.

Paul DeNigris

Paul DeNigris is an award-winning visual effects artist, filmmaker and film educator with three decades of experience in making moving images for screens both big and small. He is the founder and creative director of VFX and motion design boutique Foxtrot X-Ray.

https://foxtrotxray.com/
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