New tax credit welcome relief for Kamloops Search and Rescue

Feb 12, 2017 | 9:35 AM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops Search and Rescue is calling the provinces new tax break for rescue volunteers a welcome surprise. 

On Saturday the Liberals announced a new tax break that would write off up to $3,000 from search and rescue and firefighting volunteers taxable income.

The new tax credit will translate to a $151 benefit every year.

With volunteers already receiving a federal tax break, savings for emergency volunteers now total $600 per year.

Kamloops Search and Rescue’s Alan Hobler says with members responsible for buying their own gear, the provincial tax credit will further soften the blow for its more than 40 volunteers.

“Equipment costs can range from $1,000 to $2,000,” said Hobler. “The $151 dollars will come in handy for all of our searchers that qualify for the credit. Every little bit counts, it’s certainly great to get the recognition.”

The credit goes into effect for the 2017 tax year.

 

Saving lives isn’t cheap; Kamloops Search and Rescue welcome new tax credit