A quick reminder for all of you tax preparers out there: Your clients have a chance to save the polluted Chesapeake Bay — and you have an opportunity to help.
It'll come with a simple check-box donation on state income tax returns. Those interested will be able to enter the amount of their donation on Line 35 of their Maryland income tax return. The donations will go to the Chesapeake Bay and Endangered Species Fund and are split evenly between the Chesapeake Bay Trust and the Wildlife and Heritage Division of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Folks with the Chesapeake Bay Trust have begun sending information to CPAs around the state with details about how they and their clients can get involved. With busy season closing in, preparers will want to keep an eye on their mail for details about how the program works. Check your mailbox, or view and print the mailer here.
According to the DNR, the donations will be used to promote:
- Chesapeake Bay education and restoration projects for students.
- Stream cleanups and tree plantings by community volunteers.
- Habitat research, protection and enhancement for threatened plants and animals.
- Protection of Maryland's endangered species.
Just a friendly reminder. Do your part. Help your clients do their part.
Maybe we can breathe some new life into the Bay.