Maryland Food Donation Pilot Program
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The Maryland Food Donation Pilot Program (SB 416) became law in 2017. It allows farmers to donate eligible food in return for a tax credit against State income taxes. The program was originally launched exclusively in Southern Maryland and Montgomery County, but was expanded statewide and will now continue through 2021 following the passage of 2019 legislative session (HB 403).
Maryland
farmers who donate food to a charity that participates in the state’s Food
Donation Pilot Program are eligible for up to $5,000 per year of tax credit. The
Maryland Department of Agriculture manages the program in cooperation with the Comptroller
and has authority to issue up to $100,000 in tax credits annually. Eligible donations
are defined as “fresh farm products for
human consumption.” Food donations are eligible for a tax credit of up to 50%
of the value of the donation, not to exceed $5,000 per calendar year. Certified
organic produce donations are eligible for a tax credit of 75% of its value.
For more information or questions on the application process, contact Mark Powell at (410) 841-5775 or mark.powell@maryland.gov.